This is Your Brain on “Love”

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In my article, “When Love Isn’t Love: Bonded by Betrayal,” I promised to expand on the biochemical response to a trauma bond. In that article I stated:

A trauma bond—sometimes called a betrayal bond—is caused when gestures of love, caring, or good-will are intermittently alternated with periods of abuse, exploitation, or betrayal. Each incident of caring, followed by toxic treatment, serves to intensify the bond.

This type of relationship feels like love or loyalty despite the fact that our partner is repeatedly hurting us with toxic, unfaithful, or otherwise destructive behaviors.

What’s so crucial to understand is that the formation of this type of attachment isn’t merely emotional—it’s biochemical as well. The good news is that any chemical addiction can be freed, liberated and replaced by something merciful, blessed, true, and worthy.

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