#269: Ted Bundy Psychologist Explains Why People Stay in Abusive Relationships - Dr. Peter Salerno

Why do people stay in abusive relationships?

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Peter Salerno, a psychologist and expert in trauma and abusive relationships.

We explore what happens psychologically when someone is being abused - from the early signs to the long-term effects on the mind and nervous system.

We talk about cognitive dissonance, manipulation tactics like gaslighting and love bombing, and why people can feel trapped even when they know something is wrong.

This episode will change how you understand abusive relationships and the people who experience them.

Dr. Peter Salerno is a psychologist specializing in trauma, personality disorders, and recovery from abusive relationships.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Intro - Signs of Abuse 

(00:48) Confusion and Dissonance 

(01:30) Nervous System Freeze 

(03:26) Intuition Versus Gaslighting 

(06:00) Manipulation Tactics 

(08:23) Intentional Abuse Explained 

(12:28) Psychopathy and Empathy 

(17:15) Who Gets Targeted 

(20:39) Why Leaving Feels Impossible 

(22:49) Beyond Romance and Long Term Healing 

(29:24) Finding Meaning After Trauma 

(31:14) Shame During Grad School 

(32:22) When Professionals Invalidate 

(35:18) Social Media Spreads Awareness 

(39:07) Are Victims People Pleasers 

(40:11) Psychopathy and Power 

(45:39) Spotting Red Flags Early 

(50:20) First Steps to Get Help 

(53:39) Where to Learn More 

(55:02) Advice and Happiness 

(57:24) Final Thanks and Wrap Up

Connect with Nick:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/nickbracks

Website: http://nickbracks.com

Email: [email protected]

Connect with Peter:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpetersalerno/

Website: https://www.drpetersalerno.com/

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