Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of a toxic relationship? You are more than likely trauma bonded. A trauma bond is a deep emotional attachment that develops in a relationship characterized by abuse that's emotional, physical, or both. Trauma bonding occurs when a person experiencing abuse develops an unhealthy attachment to their abuser. They may rationalize or defend the abusive actions, feel a sense of loyalty, isolate from others, and hope that the abuser's behavior will change.