Episode 186: The Cycle That Keeps You Hooked: Love Bombing & Trauma Bonds

“Why didn’t you just leave?”
 It’s the question survivors of abuse hear the most—and the one that causes the deepest shame. The truth is, leaving an abusive relationship isn’t simple. The reason is something called the cycle of abuse and trauma bonding.

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Allison K. Dagney—survivor, author, and subconscious reprogramming expert—explains why survivors feel trapped even when they want to escape.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The four stages of the cycle of abuse: love bombing, devaluation, discard, and hoovering
• How trauma bonds form through intermittent reinforcement and brain chemistry
• Why the bond feels like love but is actually survival
• First steps you can take to recognize the pattern in your own life

This conversation is for anyone who has ever asked themselves, “Why didn’t I leave?” or struggled to understand why someone else stayed. You’ll walk away with clarity, validation, and a new perspective that removes the shame and puts the responsibility where it belongs—on the abuser.

👉 Don’t forget: when you leave a review for this podcast, screenshot it, and tag Allison on social media, you’ll receive her I’m Worthy Immersion Program completely free. This program will help you reprogram limiting beliefs, rebuild self-worth, and begin healing from emotional abuse.