Can Coercive Control Be a Learned Behaviour
While coercive control often appears intentional, it can also be a learned behaviour for some individuals. People who grow up witnessing control in family relationships or absorbing cultural expectations around dominance may adopt these behaviours unconsciously. In such cases, they may genuinely believe they are acting out of care or protection, not realising the harm they cause. Understanding that coercive control can be learned highlights the importance of self-awareness and education to prevent it from damaging relationships.
Family Violence Mindset Solutions offers a Coercive Control Course that explores learned behaviours and helps individuals identify and modify harmful patterns.
How Coercive Control Can Develop as a Learned Behaviour
- Family Dynamics – Individuals raised in homes where control was normalised may not recognise it as problematic, adopting similar behaviours in their relationships.
- Cultural Expectations – Societies that reinforce traditional or rigid relationship roles may unintentionally encourage coercive control.
- Previous Relationships – Exposure to controlling behaviours in past relationships can set a precedent, leading to unintentional control in future relationships.
- Influence of Media and Society – Media often romanticises possessiveness and control, which may lead individuals to see such behaviours as acceptable or desirable.
- Low Self-Awareness – Without understanding the effects of their actions, individuals may use coercive behaviours unconsciously, not seeing them as harmful.
Our course at Family Violence Mindset Solutions helps individuals understand and identify learned control behaviours, providing tools for self-reflection and change. Learn more about recognising learned coercive control.
Educating for Awareness and Positive Change
Awareness of coercive control as a learned behaviour allows for growth and healthier relationships. Family Violence Mindset Solutions offers resources to help individuals unlearn these behaviours and foster respectful dynamics. Contact us for guidance.