Understanding Coercive Control: Insights from Christine Louis de Canonville
It becomes an unfortunate situation, especially the longer survivors with somebody abusive like this, because that trauma bond is fused and with the intermittent sprinkling of the coercive control and the psychological abuse, it becomes very difficult for the survivor to leave.
Ever wondered how narcissists manage to manipulate and control their victims so effectively? In this compelling episode of 'The Savvy Shrink', host Andrea Schneider sits down with Christine Louis de Canonville, a seasoned psychotherapist, educator, and author, to unpack the dark world of coercive control. Christine brings decades of experience, having worked in Dublin's Trauma Unit at St. Brendan’s Psychiatric Hospital and in her private practice with victims of pathological narcissistic abuse.
Christine shares her deep understanding of 'The Dark Triad'—Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy—offering listeners a glimpse into the mind of a narcissist. She explains how these manipulative tactics create a trauma bond between abuser and victim, making it incredibly challenging for survivors to break free. Andrea and Christine delve into the psychological mechanisms behind coercive control, shedding light on why victims often find themselves trapped in these toxic relationships. But it's not all about the dark side.
The episode also focuses on hope and recovery. Christine emphasizes the importance of educating therapists about the nuances of narcissistic abuse and coercive control. With proper, trauma-informed care, survivors can heal and reclaim their lives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of narcissistic abuse or looking for ways to support someone going through it.
Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that combines expert insights with compassionate advice, making it a valuable resource for both survivors and mental health professionals.