Dear questioner,
I appreciate your inquiry.
After reading your question and considering your emotional responses, it is evident that you experience distress, sadness, and anger, as well as other complex emotions, due to the issue of control.
One query pertains to the subject of control.
In regard to the aforementioned assertion that the subject's mother and younger brother are both markedly controlling, it was observed that they engage in discourse with the subject on a range of topics, some of which do not elicit emotional responses, while others do. When emotions are involved, the subject perceives the discourse to be unmanageable.
It is an undeniable fact that no individual desires to be subjected to control. The need for a sense of control is a universal human trait. However, it is crucial to recognize that excessive control can have detrimental effects on both the controller and the controlled. Dr. Susan Forward, a renowned psychologist, posits that excessive control in relationships is a toxic phenomenon.
The act of exerting control implies a belief that one's own will is inherently right and superior, necessitating the subjugation of the other's will. This entails a process of invasion and domination, whereby the controlling individual attempts to impose their will upon the controlled.
When an individual's soul is unable to achieve a state of equilibrium within itself, it is evident that they are experiencing distress.
It is essential to examine the origins of the relationship between the controller and the controlled.
The answer may be unexpected, but it can be ascertained with certainty through self-awareness and self-verification. The answer is that it is a duet between the controller and the controlled.
The controlled individual consents to the invitation of the controller and agrees to the invasion of the controller's will, thereby causing pain in their soul. In other words, when the controlled refuses to engage in this dynamic with the controller, the control and being controlled cannot continue.
The question then becomes: how might one cease engaging in this behavior? The answer lies in understanding the underlying dynamics of the game and the rules that govern it. Once these are grasped, it becomes possible to exert control and disengage from the game.
2. The issue of boundaries
In response to your inquiry regarding emotional challenges and the concept of boundaries, we have initiated an examination of the fundamental aspects of this control dynamic.
It is therefore crucial to establish a mental boundary when one feels controlled and desires to regain control. The question then arises as to how one might set such a boundary.
In general, the first step is to create a physical distance. Additionally, you have identified a crucial element of the core control issue, namely emotions.
It can be observed that both the individual being controlled and the controller are influenced by the powerful force of emotion.
Emotions can be likened to an elephant, and reason can be likened to the elephant rider. When the elephant truly desires to proceed in a specific direction, the rider is unable to control it (it is rare for two individuals engaged in an argument to listen to each other).
Therefore, after establishing a distance and setting boundaries, it is also necessary to be aware of and understand one's emotions, which is one of the keys to breaking this game of control.
To comprehend one's emotional state is to permit oneself to engage with one's emotions. During this process, it is essential to recognize that emotions are neither inherently positive nor negative; they are, in fact, the most valuable inheritance bestowed upon us by our ancestors, enabling us to navigate the complexities of life.
It is beneficial to acknowledge the presence of emotions and to permit them to express themselves verbally or non-verbally. When emotions are acknowledged and understood, they are no longer controlling our actions; instead, we have successfully completed a crucial energy flow.
This dynamic can imbue our lives with a sense of vitality, enabling us to navigate the complexities of control and its inherent challenges with greater ease.
Alternatively, it is evident that one's own boundaries exist, akin to a portal. One has the option to either open or close this portal to oneself. When control arises, one may choose to permit it to do so and thereby open the portal, or alternatively, to reject it and close the portal.
Ultimately, the decision is entirely up to the individual.
3. With regard to the assertion that "You told us not to be cold, but now you're being cold yourself,"
It would be beneficial to ascertain the emotional response elicited by this statement.
The individual in question is essentially stating that, given the fact that the other party is unable to perform the task in question, there is no reason why he or she should be expected to do so.
Such a mindset can lead to a binary thinking pattern, whereby one party assumes the role of the authority figure, asserting their superiority and correctness while the other party is relegated to the position of the inferior, erroneous one.
The individual in question is prevented from engaging in the desired action, and is consequently labelled as "bad." However, the onus is not on the individual to permit the action to be taken, but rather on the individual to maintain their own moral rectitude.
This is fundamentally about having a multitude of expectations of the other person, anticipating that the other person will fulfill these expectations and act in accordance with one's desires. At the core of this dynamic is the desire for control, manifesting as a dominant voice.
It is therefore necessary to abandon the expectation of "speaking over the other person, winning over the other person, and proving that we are right," which represents the final step in exiting this mode of engagement.
It is my sincere hope that the aforementioned responses prove beneficial to you. I extend my warmest regards to you and to the entire world.
Comments
I understand how draining it can be to deal with such intense emotional reactions. It's important to set boundaries for your own wellbeing. Sometimes, taking a step back and giving everyone space can help calm the situation.
It sounds incredibly tough being caught in those arguments. Maybe suggesting a neutral third party, like a counselor, could offer some guidance on healthier communication methods for everyone involved.
Communication within families can indeed be complex. Have you tried expressing your feelings calmly and clearly using "I" statements? It might help them understand where you're coming from without feeling attacked.
Your situation seems very challenging. It's okay to feel overwhelmed. Perhaps establishing clear boundaries and communicating your needs firmly but kindly could provide some relief. Remember, it's alright to prioritize your mental health.
Family dynamics can be so hard, especially when emotions run high. It might help to have a conversation about setting mutual respect and understanding as a goal for all communications. This could prevent escalations in the future.