Those of us who grew up in dysfunctional homes tend to share common learned behaviors that make it easy for us to fall into toxic relationships. It’s like we have a big sticker on our forehead that says, “Toxic People, Choose Me!”

There are so many ways a trauma bond looks (and feels) similar to a healthy relationship–especially in the beginning. The “spark” we feel might be the start of a rollercoaster relationship rather than a deep, loving connection with our partner.