“Growing up in this type of environment conditions a child to become hyper-observant in learning micro-behaviors—in assessing for the slightest differences in expression or nuances in their parents’ approval or disapproval.”

“Researchers have found that feeling contented isn’t good for the species because it keeps us from seeking further benefits or improvements.”

“Research has demonstrated a link between trauma and many symptoms of anxiety, finding that our experiences in childhood and beyond often lead to behavior manifestations present well into adulthood.”

“An inability to get started often stems from the stories we tell ourselves, often inaccurate, about who we are and what we're capable of.”

“Having a parent who is emotionally immature can be deeply frustrating (enraging even) and cause you to question your own sense of self and perception of reality.”

“When it is the only thing we know, there is no such thing as "dysfunctional," only our normal. It often is not until adulthood, when people begin to notice unhealthy patterns that manifest in romantic and social relationships, that many even begin to wonder, "Is this normal?" or "Why does this keep happening to me?"

“If, all of a sudden, you have an emotional reaction that is intense, unpredictable, and fear-based, you may consciously or unconsciously be experiencing emerging trauma.”