From a psychodynamic perspective, the avoidant-dismissive attachment style is deeply rooted in early relational experiences, particularly with primary caregivers. Individuals who develop this attachment style often had caregivers who were emotionally unavailable, dismissive, or rejecting of their needs. As a result, the child learned to suppress their own attachment needs, where a defensive structure was […]
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that causes someone to doubt their own judgment, sanity, and memories. It occurs when a partner intentionally triggers emotional distress by bringing up sensitive topics, then denies, minimizes, or blames the victim for overreacting. Love bombing, on the other hand, is a pattern of intense and overwhelming attention […]
If you’ve ever felt caught in a cycle with sex, drinking, drugs, or gambling (one that feels impossible to stop, even when you want to) you’re not alone. Maybe part of you wants change, while another part isn’t sure it’s possible. Or maybe the behavior brings some relief… until it brings shame, regret, or disconnection. […]
You may have heard the term eating disorder – and perhaps you know someone who lives with one. Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions marked by disrupted eating patterns and a harmful impact on both physical and emotional well-being. In this blog, we aim to shed light on what eating disorders are, explore several […]
Dreams have long fascinated thinkers and psychologists, leading to various theories about their purpose and significance. Some view them as random brain activity, while others, such as Sigmund Freud, believe they reveal repressed desires. Carl Jung, however, took a different perspective. He considered dreams to be a crucial link to the unconscious mind, offering vital […]
Psychological defenses, also known as defense mechanisms, are unconscious strategies that people use to manage the emotional impact of stress, anxiety, and inner conflicts. First proposed by Sigmund Freud and later expanded upon by his daughter, Anna Freud, defense mechanisms are seen as tools that help the mind deal with the complexity of both internal […]
The holiday season often stirs up complex emotions, especially for those who find it hard to align their experiences with the cheerful imagery of togetherness and joy. From a psychodynamic perspective, this time of year can bring long-buried feelings to the surface. The pressure to connect with family or meet societal expectations of holiday cheer […]
Active imagination, a technique developed by Carl Jung, serves as a core method in analytical psychology for engaging with the unconscious. Jung viewed it as a pathway to achieving personal wholeness by unlocking latent aspects of the psyche. Unlike dreams, where the unconscious communicates in a passive, unidirectional way, active imagination allows the conscious mind […]
Psychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud, is a therapeutic approach used to understand and treat trauma. Although the exact techniques employed may vary among psychoanalysts, here are some general principles: Free association: The patient is encouraged to freely speak about their thoughts, emotions, and memories without censorship or judgment. This helps uncover unconscious material related to […]
How Can Art Therapy and Parenting Improve Attachment and Self-Trust in Children? Attachment styles, as explored in psychological literature, significantly influence how we form and maintain relationships in adulthood. Books like Attached offer accessible insights into three primary attachment styles – secure, anxious, and avoidant – helping readers understand the root causes of these patterns […]
