Trauma & Relationships · 90 secs
Trauma Bonding & Intermittent Reinforcement Screener
Assess narcissistic abuse hooks, biochemical addiction, cognitive dissonance, and somatic withdrawal panic. 12-item clinical self-assessment based on Dr. Patrick Carnes' Betrayal Bond model.
Scientific Overview
A trauma bond is a powerful neurochemical attachment forged through unpredictable cycles of abuse, betrayal, devaluation, and intermittent reconciliations. Sufferers experience extreme somatic withdrawal, terror of abandonment, and identity erosion.
What This Assessment Evaluates
- Measures Intermittent Addiction & Chemical Craving, Cognitive Dissonance & Partner Defense, and Identity Erosion & Learned Helplessness
- Demystifies why leaving a toxic partner feels like acute narcotic drug withdrawal
- Zero-contact containment, somatic nervous system stabilization, and unedited reality-logging protocols
How to Take This Test
- Answer honestly based on your experience over the past 7 days.
- There are no right or wrong answers; trust your initial emotional reaction.
- Receive your personalized score breakdown, mascot insight, and custom journaling prompts immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does it feel impossible to leave a partner who hurts me?
Intermittent reinforcement-where kindness and abuse are distributed unpredictably-hijacks the brain's dopamine reward circuitry. The sudden relief of reconciliation after cold detachment triggers massive neurochemical highs that mimic physical substance addiction.
What are the physical symptoms of breaking a trauma bond?
During the first 30 days of No Contact, individuals often experience biological withdrawal: insomnia, shaking, nausea, panic spikes, crying jags, and compulsive urges to check communication channels.
Medical Disclaimer
Start the Assessment
Takes just a minute. Free, anonymous, and no account required to see your initial results.
Start Test Now