In episode 60, Rita shared her survivor story—her stepfather sexually abused her for years. In her story, Rita mentioned that "There were periods where I wanted my stepfather to love me and I was always trying to say, 'I'm an okay kid, you can love me. See? I'll be nice to you.'"

What is it that draws a victim to their abuser? Why do they sometimes want to still gain their approval? Krista DeBoer explains trauma bonding in this episode.

If you need resources or help in any way, call our 24 hour hotline at 800-828-2023 or visit www.DASASMI.org.

Subscribe for a new episode each week. We publish every Wednesday morning at 8:00am. Subscribe to the weekly email newsletter here or at our website here.

We appreciate your help in spreading the message of hope. You can help us reach more listeners by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or where you listen, and by sharing on social media.