Coercive control is a pattern of relational harm that can be difficult to recognize while it is happening. It often develops gradually and can affect a person’s sense of safety, autonomy, self-trust, and identity — making it confusing or even frightening to step back and see the impact of the relationship.
People come to this topic from different places. Some are trying to understand their own relationship and why leaving feels so difficult. Others are worried about someone they love and feel unsure how to help without making things worse.
The resources below are intended to support understanding without blame or pressure. They are grounded in trauma-informed, relational, and psychological perspectives, and are designed to be read at your own pace.
· Coercive Control: How It Works and Why Leaving Feels Impossible