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RELATIONSHIP TRAUMA reveals in-depth experiences of eleven women who survived abusive and traumatic intimate relationships. It is based on a comprehensive research study through which a theory emerged depicting intricate and dynamic pushing-pulling processes that the women endured in these destructive relationships. This theory encapsulates the increasingly intense mental, emotional, behavioural, physical, and spiritual effects of abuse and trauma, the varied coping strategies used throughout the relationship, how the women broke free from the grips of the emotional tie, and their road to recovery. The traumatic relationship progresses through a series of stages: from the initial development of a loving bond, to its eventual distortion, and finally to breaking the emotional lock after becoming traumatized. This book is essential reading for researchers, clinicians, and those individuals who share these devastating experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the abusive relationship that becomes traumatic and for learning new ways to recover from its grip.

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Dr. Orzeck is a registered psychologist and psychology instructor in Victoria, BC. She works as a clinical psychologist with children and adults on a wide range of issues, and teaches at the undergraduate and graduate university levels. She has a particular passion for social justice issues, balancing this with athletic endurance pursuits.

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