Breaking free from the anxious-avoidant trap

Dr Ruth Ann Harpur December 26, 2023
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Dr Ruth Ann Harpur

@drruthannharpur

About

Specialist in relationships, issues of narcissism and personality disorders. Please see the links below if you would like to *download a free self-compassion exercise *access trusted resources to help you build self compassion *enquire about my availability for 1:1 therapy *learn about the group coaching programmes I am currently offering Disclaimer: The content is for education and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be clinical advice. Please consult a health care provider or licensed therapist for individual advice and guidance.

Video Description

One of the most common relationship struggles is the push-pull dynamic between a partner who fears losing the relationship and a partner who fears losing themselves. This is the classic conflict between anxious and avoidant attachment styles—a pattern where both partners unintentionally trigger the very behaviors they fear the most. In this video, I break down: ✔️ Why anxious partners seek more closeness while avoidant partners pull away ✔️ How each partner’s reaction intensifies the other’s fears ✔️ The attachment cycle that keeps relationships stuck in frustration and conflict ✔️ Why adult attachment styles aren’t fixed—and how to shift toward security ✔️ Steps to break free from toxic relationship patterns and create real emotional connection Can Attachment Styles Change? If you feel like you’re trapped in a cycle of chasing or withdrawing, it’s important to know that attachment patterns aren’t set in stone. Understanding these dynamics can help you stop repeating unhealthy relationship patterns and move toward a more secure, fulfilling connection. 💬 Join the Conversation: Do you identify more with anxious or avoidant attachment? Share your thoughts in the comments—your experience could help others! 🔔 Subscribe for expert insights on attachment theory, relationship healing, and emotional resilience. 📌 Check Out the Full Series: If you're interested in learning more about attachment styles after abusive relationships, be sure to watch the related videos in this series. The truth about your attachment style after abuse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AgXrdp3Le8&t=43s Hope for people with an ANXIOUS attachment style: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvCdJYXgHNA&t=21s Avoidant attachment: how to get close without losing your freedom https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOnmY6hZZI8&t=260s ****************************************************************************** FREE EXERCISE TO HELP YOU BUILD SELF COMPASSION AFTER ABUSE If you'd like my help to start building self compassion after abuse click here: https://ruth-ann-harpur.mykajabi.com/opt-in ******************************************************************************

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