Author of “Invisible Chains: Overcoming Coercive Control in Your Intimate Relationship,” Dr. Lisa Aronson Fontes focuses her work on the often subtle yet highly manipulative and controlling dynamics that may emerge in abusive relationships. Coercion is usually motivated by the need to establish power over one’s partner, and may take many forms including isolating one’s partner from his or her family and friends, criticizing or insulting one’s partner, and “monitoring activities” (or “micromanaging”) including telling one’s partner what he or she should wear, say, think, etc.  These dynamics often result in the partner feeling like a hostage in the relationship, yet he or she may be confused about what is happening and unable to understand or even identify the controlling dynamics. Fontes describes a set of factors that could help you determine if your partner attempts to utilize these unhealthy domination tactics. An interview of Fontes in which she describes “course of control” relationships is available on the “IDoPodcast.” In the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, November 6, 2021 (11:45 AM to 1:00 PM), we will explore Fontes’s views of coercive control.

*Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, November 6, 2021, 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.com no later than Thursday, November 4, 2021.  The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in this telehealth event must be completed prior to the seminar. Please note that the Relationship Group Seminar is psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and does not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.