Yes, trauma bonding can occur in various types of relationships, not just romantic ones. Trauma bonding is a phenomenon where an intense emotional connection forms between individuals who have experienced significant trauma together. This bond can be so strong that it keeps them attached to one another, even in harmful or abusive situations.
Trauma bonding can happen in any relationship where there is a shared experience of trauma or abuse. Here are some examples of relationships where trauma bonding can occur:
Familial relationships: Trauma bonding can develop between family members who have experienced abuse or traumatic events together, such as in cases of childhood abuse, domestic violence within the family, or surviving a natural disaster as a family unit.
Friendship: Trauma bonding can also form among friends who have gone through distressing events together, such as being involved in accidents, surviving a life-threatening situation, or coping with the aftermath of a traumatic event as a group.
Cults or extremist groups: In some cases, individuals who have been manipulated or subjected to abusive behaviors within cults or extremist groups can experience trauma bonding with their fellow members due to shared traumatic experiences and a sense of belonging.
Work relationships: In certain high-stress or dangerous occupations, like military units, emergency responders, or healthcare professionals working in critical situations, individuals may experience trauma bonding as they face trauma together in their daily work.
Trauma bonding is a complex psychological phenomenon and can be challenging to recognize and break free from, as the intense emotional connection can be both comforting and distressing at the same time. In cases of trauma bonding in any type of relationship, seeking support from mental health professionals experienced in trauma therapy can be beneficial to work through these issues and promote healing and healthier connections.