Surviving narcissistic abuse gives rise to a distinctive set of trauma responses, a constellation of psychological and emotional reactions seldom witnessed in survivors of other forms of trauma, such as those stemming from poverty, surviving a car accident, or experiencing the ravages of war. Regrettably, the diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders) diverge from the typical symptoms exhibited by survivors of alternative traumas.
The DSM does aptly address conventional symptoms like hypervigilance, anxiety, stress, hyperarousal, nightmares, and flashbacks, all characteristic of post-traumatic stress. However, it falls short of encapsulating atypical symptoms like cognitive dissonance, trauma bonding, chronic self-doubt, and related experiences. In this enlightening episode, we will delve profoundly into five discernible signs that may indicate you are grappling with post-narcissistic abuse stress disorder.
Now, let’s proceed to unravel the nuances of the five signs:
Trauma Bonding and Cognitive Dissonance:
Trauma bonding and cognitive dissonance stand as atypical symptoms rarely observed in survivors of other traumas, such as war veterans or accident survivors. Trauma bonding emerges from the narcissist’s oscillation between affection and cruelty, creating an intense emotional connection akin to addiction. Cognitive dissonance involves an internal struggle, where one facet acknowledges the negative traits of the narcissist, while another clings to positive memories, leading to emotional perplexity.
Trust Issues:
5 Questions a Narcissist CANNOT Answer
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
