In this podcast, Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed, LCPC, CADC, discusses the hidden dangers of pursuing happiness for those with Self-Love Deficit Disorder (SLDD), or codependency. He explains how codependents often mistake the absence of pain for true happiness due to their relationships with narcissists, who manipulate and gaslight them. Ross emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying issues like trauma, shame, and loneliness, and building self-love before seeking happiness. For more resources and support, visit selfloverecovery.com or contact help@selfloverecovery.com.

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With a new introduction, Ross re-shares the video that has changed thousands of lives.

The most effective of all the narcissist's manipulative strategies is “Induced Conversation.” Especially when breaking down a no-contact initiative or when trying to hoover (suck back into the relationship) the codependent. For codependents to not get sucked back into the relationship that has nearly destroyed them, they must have potent countermeasures to survive the narcissist’s induced conversation strategies.

Induced conversation is the primary weapon that the narcissist wrestler uses to maintain their power and control over you. As you begin setting boundaries, breaking off the relationship, and even utilizing the ODA technique, you will fail if you do not understand what is at stake for the narcissist. Remember, their number one goal is to keep you in the wrestling ring.

Narcissists are nothing by themselves, despite what they may tell themselves. They need you like they need oxygen to live. Internally, they are filled with insecurity, shame, and dread, regardless of if they are conscious of it. Most narcissists can’t become aware of these internal battles. There may be rare moments where they can connect with their shame, such as moments when they meltdown, beg, plead, and promise you everything so they can keep you in their life. However, that window closes quickly and is unlikely to reopen. They simply are oblivious to their darker sides and their shame.

Induced conversation is what keeps them in control of the relationship. It is how they command their powers and control strategies. After all, if they can get you to respond, defend yourself, or argue, you will be right back in the wrestling ring with them.

To wield this power, the narcissist has to get you to talk to them first. If you try to go no-contact, the only way for them to get back into your life is through induced conversation.

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In this podcast, Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed, LCPC, CADC, discusses the concept of pathological loneliness, a profound existential pain that individuals with self-love deficit disorder (SLDD), or codependency, experience when they are not in a relationship. Rosenberg explores the roots of this condition, its connection to codependency, and how it manifests as a visceral, bone-aching pain driving individuals into unhealthy relationships to avoid loneliness. He likens SLDD to an addiction, where the "drug" is the relationship itself, not the narcissistic partner. Through this discussion, Rosenberg aims to shed light on the existential crisis faced by those with SLDD and offers insights into his Self-Love Recovery Treatment Program as a path to healing and overcoming this debilitating condition.

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