Disempowerment by an perceived authority figure is a pervasive issue that can occur in various contexts, from personal relationships to institutional settings. This article explores the basic dynamics of disempowerment, its psychological impacts, and strategies for regaining autonomy and self-trust. You are not crazy. But it is your job to stand up. 

*It is important to note that not all disempowered states are externalized. There is another form of deeply hidden disempowerment that often is internalized and almost always obfuscated from the individual view.
The deepest bias often requires another to mirror that back to us. It show's up, often unexpectedly, to remind us, the work is never done.

Understanding Disempowerment

Disempowerment occurs when an individual's sense of personal agency and autonomy is diminished or removed by external forces, often those in positions of authority or perceived power. This can manifest in various relationships:

1. Personal relationships (e.g., with narcissistic or controlling partners)
2. Institutional settings (e.g., workplaces, educational institutions, academics)
3. Societal structures (e.g., government systems, cultural norms)

Dr. Judith Herman, in her seminal work "Trauma and Recovery," describes how authoritarian control can lead to a state of "learned helplessness," where individuals begin to believe they have no control over their circumstances.

The Psychology of Disempowerment

Research has shown that disempowerment can have significant psychological impacts:

1. Decreased self-esteem and self-efficacy
2. Increased anxiety and depression
3. Cognitive dissonance and confusion about one's own perceptions
4. Difficulty in decision-making and assertiveness
   Often when there is a sense of initial trust in the figure or establishment, one may face states of confusion as they begin to wake up to the reality of what is actually occurring. It is common to enter states of grief, denial, and relief moments in attempts to make sense of what is going on. Our systems can become overwhelmed and seek ways to disassociate to cope. This eventually leads to a chasm in the personality and one risks mental, physical health, and spiritual implications.

A study by Mirowsky and Ross (1983) found that individuals who perceived themselves as having little control over their lives reported higher levels of psychological distress.

The Role of Narcissism in Disempowerment

In personal relationships, narcissistic individuals often employ tactics that lead to disempowerment. Dr. Craig Malkin, in his book "Rethinking Narcissism," describes how narcissists use various strategies to maintain control:

1. Gaslighting: Manipulating someone's perception of reality
2. Love bombing: Overwhelming someone with affection to gain control
3. Devaluation: Criticizing and belittling to erode self-esteem

Institutional Disempowerment

In institutional settings, disempowerment can be more subtle but equally if not more damaging. Michel Foucault's work on power structures in institutions highlights how knowledge and expertise can be used as tools of control. A study by Spreitzer (1995) found that employees who felt empowered at work reported higher job satisfaction and performance. Conversely, those who felt disempowered experienced higher levels of stress and burnout. Sadly many times those empowered are willfully participating in tribal dynamics that support the maintenance of unhealthy system and those disempowered are often the ones waking up to the dysfunctions of the tribe.

Spiritual Perspectives on Disempowerment

Many spiritual traditions offer insights into the nature of personal power and autonomy:

1. Buddhism emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and personal responsibility in achieving enlightenment.
2. Hinduism's concept of "Atman" or the inner self emphasizes the inherent divinity and power within each individual.
3. Christian teachings often emphasize the importance of free will and personal choice in spiritual growth.

This principle of inner autonomy is critical to continue to develop along one's lifetime, this is never ending process of self discovery. 

Steps to Realization and Recovery

1. Awareness: Recognize the signs of disempowerment in your life. (Quantify your feelings, does this make me feel good, bad, indifferent? Or does "this" make me feel more connected or less connected to my true nature?)
2. Education: Learn about healthy relationship dynamics and personal boundaries.
3. Self-reflection: Examine your beliefs about your own capabilities and worth.
4. Seek support: Consult with trusted therapists, coaches, or support groups.
5. Practice assertiveness: Learn to express your needs and opinions clearly.
6. Set boundaries: Establish and maintain healthy boundaries in relationships.
7. Develop self-trust: Practice making decisions and trusting your own judgment.

Individuation and Regaining Autonomy

Carl Jung's concept of individuation provides a framework for personal growth and autonomy. This process involves:

1. Recognizing and integrating different aspects of the self (Internal Family Systems as created by Richard Swartz is a superior method)
2. Developing a strong sense of personal identity (Take the time to continue to know thyself but remain willing to continue to learn and dismantle if needed)
3. Differentiating oneself from external influences and expectations (highly sensitive people can confuse their states of being's with others, i.e. is this my feeling or someone else's is a good first question to investigate)

Dr. Robert Firestone's "Voice Therapy" technique can be helpful in identifying and challenging negative self-talk that reinforces disempowerment. 
I highly recommend the healing arts in this case to calm the "monkey mind" for example a daily committed practice of yoga, martial arts, Qigong, or anything that connected mindful movement with periods of breath and stillness.

Building Self-Trust

1. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. *When we don't practice self forgiveness we run into looping cycles trying desperately to make change but deep within we are blocking it.
2. Set and achieve small goals: Build confidence through accomplishments.
3. Listen to your intuition: Pay attention to your inner voice and feelings.
4. Reflect on past successes: Remind yourself of times you've made good decisions.
5. Seek feedback from trusted sources: Validate your perceptions with others you trust.

Overcoming disempowerment is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and often a variety of methods to help integrate along our journey. By understanding the dynamics of disempowerment and actively working to regain autonomy, individuals can break free from authoritarian control and develop a stronger sense of self trust. Remember, as Maya Angelou said, "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."
Empowerment begins with the decision to reclaim your personal power and trust in your own capabilities and take the necessary actions or states of quietude while regaining inner strength that can be coupled with external action.