Modern relationship dynamics have evolved significantly, reflecting changes in societal norms, digital communication, and psychological complexities. This article is a theoretical review examining the interaction of early trauma, attachment disruptions, dissociation, and narcissistic traits in shaping relational behaviors such as situationships, cushioning, breadcrumbing, ghosting-zombie-ing, enmeshment, and the objectification trap. From the perspective of modern psychotraumatology and dissoanalysis theory, it explores how unresolved emotional issues and societal influences sustain patterns of control, superficial interactions, and emotional detachment, drawing on concepts like necriphysiphilia and controlled human syndrome. These dysfunctional relationships are intensified by digital platforms, amplifying interpersonal alienation and promoting cycles of control, submission, and dependency. To counter consumerist and digital structures that encourage emotional detachment and the commodification of relationships, societal shifts emphasizing empathy, authenticity, and mutual connection are needed. This study integrates psychosocial perspectives to offer a framework for understanding and minimizing dysfunctional relationship patterns in the modern era.
Kaşıkçı et al. (Tue,) studied this question.