Rinse and repeat

Repetition compulsion is a psychological phenomenon in which a person repeatedly engages in the same behavior or experiences, despite the negative consequences or lack of desired outcome.

This behavior is thought to be an unconscious attempt to resolve past conflicts or traumatic experiences.

In the context of romance and dating, this can manifest in various ways, such as repeatedly choosing the same type of partner or getting into the same type of toxic relationship.

One example of repetition compulsion is when an individual repeatedly chooses partners who are emotionally unavailable or abusive. This behavior may stem from unresolved childhood trauma, such as growing up in a household with an emotionally unavailable or abusive parent. The individual may unconsciously seek out partners who mirror their past experiences, in an attempt to resolve or make sense of those experiences. However, this pattern of behavior often leads to repeated heartache and disappointment.

Another example is when an individual repeatedly falls into the same pattern of behavior in relationships, such as being overly controlling or constantly seeking validation and reassurance. This behavior may stem from past experiences of rejection or abandonment, and the individual may unconsciously seek to avoid those experiences by exerting control over their partner or constantly seeking validation.

It's worth noting that repetition compulsion is not limited to individuals who have experienced trauma or abuse in their past, but it can also occur in people who have not experienced such traumas.

Breaking the cycle of repetition compulsion in romance and dating requires the a willingness to confront and work through past experiences. Also become more mindful of patterns in one's relationships and making a conscious effort to break those patterns by seeking out different types of partners or engaging in different types of relationships.

Gail x