Tension: Reassuring words can mask power plays; what sounds caring may quietly corral your choices and rewrite your narrative. Noise: Feel-good communication advice equates positivity with kindness, ...

"In the beginning," said Emmy Marie, "there was a tremendous amount of love bombing. He made me feel like he understood me better than anyone, like he loved everything about me on a deep, deep level, ...

In a guilt-based relationship, you may be forced to take responsibility for things that aren’t your fault. Here’s how to recognize and break free of this dynamic. Guilt is a powerful emotion—one that ...

In my years as a psychologist and now as a mental health podcast host, I've long since learned that stereotypes don't apply when it comes to controlling partners. Toxic relationships can sneak up on ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Mark Travers writes about the world of psychology. Abusive behavior is not always obvious. Here are some of the mechanisms ...