Trauma Bonding: Communication Strategies and Interventions

Trauma Bonding is an unhealthy emotional attachment that can form in an abusive relationship, specifically the connection the victim feels toward the perpetrator. The bond is often created through a cycle of abuse, where the abuser alternates between harmful behavior and moments of affection or remorse. Dr. Patrick Carnes, PhD is an addiction specialist who introduced the term in 1997 when he did a presentation, “Trauma Bonds,” Why People Bond to Those That Hurt Them.” At that time, “he defined, “Trauma Bonding as, “dysfunctional attachments that occur in the presence of danger, shame or exploitation and he considered it one of nine possible reactions to a traumatic situation.” He believed the two most important aspects of overcoming trauma are how people respond to difficult and devastating situations and how long these situations continue. Trauma Bonding can cause PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. It can cause a generational cycle of feeling that abuse is normal and must be tolerated. Case Managers are healthcare professionals who serve as patient advocates to support guide and coordinate care for patients, families and caregivers as they navigate their health and wellness journey. This presentation will address communication, interventions and strategies that can be utilized to assist patients who are staying in unhealthy and unfulfilling relationships and without recognizing that they are victims of trauma bonding.