Olivia Rodrigo’s hit song “traitor” explores the themes of betrayal and heartbreak, as the singer confronts the painful reality of partner’s infidelity. While the song can be interpreted in many ways, it can also be seen as an example of betrayal trauma, which is a form of psychological trauma that occurs when a person experiences a significant betrayal or violation of trust by someone close to them.
Betrayal trauma can have a profound impact on an individual’s emotional and psychological well-being, leading to feelings of betrayal, anger, sadness and confusion. These emotions are evident in Rodrigo’s lyrics, as she sings about feeling “so naive and so stuck in her way,” and wondering “how could you be the love of my life if you lied to me?”
One of the key features of betrayal trauma is the sense of disorientation and confusion that it can create. When a person experiences betrayal, it can shatter their understanding of the world and the people in it, leaving them struggling to make sense of their experiences. This is evident in Rodrigo’s song, as she sings about feeling lost and unsure of what to do in the aftermath of her partner’s betrayal.
Another hallmark of betrayal trauma is the sense of powerlessness that it can create. When a person is betrayed by someone close to them, they may feel like they have lost control over their lives and their relationships. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and despair, as the individual struggles to come to terms with what has happened.
In “traitor”, Rodrigo sings about feeling like she has lost control over her relationship, as she wonders if her partner ever loved her at all. She sings about feeling “used” and “played”, and wondering how much she could have been so blind to her partner’s intentions. These lyrics capture the sense of powerlessness and helplessness that often accompanies betrayal trauma.
Finally, betrayal trauma can create lasting emotional scars that can be difficult to heal. When a person experiences betrayal, it can shake their sense of self-worth and self-esteem, leaving them feeling unworthy of love and connection. In “traitor”, Rodrigo sings about the lasting impact of her partner’s betrayal, as she wonders if she will ever be able to trust again.
In conclusion, Olivia Rodrigo’s song traitor can be seen as an example of betrayal trauma, as she grapples with the painful reality of a partner’s infidelity. The song captures the disorientation, powerlessness and emotional scars that often accompany betrayal trauma, highlighting the profound impact that this form of psychological trauma can have on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. Rodrigo’s song provides a powerful and poignant commentary on the pain of betrayal and the struggles of moving on from a relationship that has been shattered by betrayal.
Check out the reading of the blog by Lei Tun, LAPC at Capstone Counseling and Coaching.