S2 E7: #83 Caroline Strawson | Narcissism, Trauma-Bonding & Neuro-Divergence | The Self Development Podcast

The Self Development Podcast

Summary

In this episode, self-development coach Johnny Lawrence interviews narcissism expert Caroline Strawson. They discuss the overuse and misinterpretation of the term 'narcissist' in society, the impact of narcissistic abuse as a form of domestic abuse, and the importance of understanding narcissism from a trauma-informed perspective. Caroline shares her personal journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and how she transitioned from being a podiatrist to a trauma-informed therapist and coach. They also explore the concept of post-traumatic growth and the complexities of narcissism, including the covert narcissist and the role of trauma in narcissistic behaviour. In this conversation, Caroline and Johnny discuss the dynamics of narcissistic relationships and the impact of narcissistic abuse. They explore the concept of mirror neurons and how people in relationships with narcissists often exhibit narcissistic traits themselves as a means of self-protection. They also discuss the concept of trauma bonding and the physiological addiction that can develop in toxic relationships. Caroline emphasises the importance of strategy and support in healing from narcissistic abuse. She highlights the need to honour and express emotions, such as anger and sadness, in a healthy way. They also touch on the differences between neurodivergence and narcissism.

Takeaways

• The term 'narcissist' is often overused and misinterpreted in society, leading to the minimisation of the experiences of those who have suffered narcissistic abuse.
• Narcissistic abuse is a form of domestic abuse and should be taken seriously.
• Healing from narcissistic abuse requires understanding and addressing the trauma that underlies it.
• Post-traumatic growth is possible after experiencing narcissistic abuse, leading to a thriving and flourishing life.
• Narcissism is a complex issue, and there are different types of narcissists, including the covert narcissist.
• It is important to focus on healing oneself rather than trying to change a narcissist, as they are unlikely to take ownership or responsibility for their behaviour. People in relationships with narcissists often exhibit narcissistic traits themselves as a means of self-protection.
• Trauma bonding can develop in toxic relationships, leading to a physiological addiction to the cycle of love bombing and silent treatment.
• Expressing and honouring emotions, such as anger and sadness, is crucial for healing from narcissistic abuse.
• Understanding the differences between neurodivergence and narcissism is important to avoid misdiagnosis and provide appropriate support.
• Hope is essential in the healing process, and finding the right community and support can make a significant difference.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Buzzword

06:18 Caroline's Journey: From Podiatrist to Trauma-Informed Therapist

12:24 Post-Traumatic Growth and Living a Thriving Life

30:16 Defining Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder

36:23 The Complexity of Narcissism and Reactive Abuse

37:12 The Dynamics of Narcissistic Relationships and the Impact of Narcissistic Abuse

39:38 Mirror Neurons and the Development of Narcissistic Traits in Relationships

41:49 Trauma Bonding and the Physiological Addiction in Toxic Relationships

44:38 Healing and the Importance of Expressing and Honoring Emotions

47:31 Understanding the Differences Between Neurodivergence and Narcissism

50:02 Finding Hope and Support in the Healing Process

Find Caroline Strawson

Website: https://carolinestrawson.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinestrawson/?hl=en

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