Coercive control produces physical harm because psychological abuse triggers measurable physiological changes across the brain, central nervous system, endocrine system, and cardiovascular system. Prolonged exposure to coercive control creates extreme, chronic stress that elevates cortisol and increases risk for autoimmune disease, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and complex PTSD. Abusers commonly employ manipulative tactics from the outset, using deception and sustained coercion rather than a relationship that merely deteriorates. The process functions as malevolent grooming that gradually entraps targets. Intense, calculated displays of affection—love-bombing—serve to secure control rather than mutual love.
It's a mistake for us to think of psychological violence as something other than physical violence. The last I checked, the brain, central nervous system, endocrine system, and the cardiovascular system are all part of the human body.
It's not like he was a great guy on the first date and then woke up one morning and decided to destroy your life. He was the enemy from Day One. A wolf in sheep's clothing.
malevolent grooming
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