Herman begins by distinguishing prolonged, repeated trauma from single traumatic events. Such repeated trauma often arises under conditions of captivity—whether in political prisons, cults, coercive forms of sex work, or families (110). Captivity is defined by the victim’s inability to escape and the perpetrator’s coercive control. These dynamics hinge on the perpetrator’s desire for obedience and psychological domination, often seeking expressions of loyalty or affection from the victim. Perpetrators typically present as psychologically normal and often operate within tolerated social roles. By linking domestic violence, cult behavior, and political repression, Herman frames coercive control as a systemic form of tyranny.

Herman highlights how psychological domination is often more effective than physical force. Drawing parallels between political captivity, cults, coercive sex work, and domestic abuse, she emphasizes that tactics such as isolation, unpredictable violence, bodily control, and intermittent rewards are universally employed to instill fear, dependency, and obedience. These methods gradually erode the victim’s autonomy and sense of reality, binding them to the perpetrator through cycles of abuse and reconciliation. While political prisoners may consciously resist emotional dependence, individuals in domestic settings often develop strong attachments, shaped by emotional bonds, social conditioning, and appeals to their values. Herman shows how these dynamics unfold gradually, often imperceptibly, reinforcing the perpetrator’s control and making escape psychologically and emotionally complex.