Now, let’s discuss how your brain becomes addicted to the very person who is isolating you. When your brain is starved of healthy social connections, it becomes desperate for any form of human contact. The narcissist becomes your only source of social stimulation, reinforcing the trauma bond and creating a neurochemical addiction. During the rare moments when the narcissist shows you attention, affection, or approval, your dopamine-starved brain experiences an intense rush of pleasure and relief. This intermittent reinforcement—being randomly rewarded after periods of punishment or neglect—is one of the most powerful conditioning techniques known to psychology.
Your brain literally becomes addicted to these moments of connection, even though they come from someone who is systematically destroying your well-being. The isolated brain also begins to produce stress-bonding chemicals. When you are in constant fear or stress, your brain releases vasopressin and oxytocin in an attempt to form attachments that provide safety. Paradoxically, this means bonding more strongly with the source of stress, which explains Stockholm syndrome. This is why leaving a narcissistic relationship feels impossible, even when you logically know it is harmful.
The Importance of Human Connection
Continue reading on the next page
[adinserter block=”3″]
Sharing is caring!
