A narcissistic family is characterized by a parent with narcissistic tendencies who enforces both spoken and unspoken rules that hinder emotional development. Members learn not to express their true feelings, leading to a lack of emotional growth and authenticity. Examples include suppressing negative emotions and downplaying personal achievements. The overall atmosphere cultivates an inability to connect with one's own emotions, resulting in family members Feeling compelled to prioritize the needs and desires of the narcissistic parent over their own, affecting their self-worth and identity.
If you grew up in a narcissistic family, you probably learned that your feelings don't matter-good or bad. If you're sad or angry, you are a burden, if you are joyful or excited, that's too threatening.
Elizabeth reports she could not share her own joy at her graduation party because her mother insisted it was a celebration for the parents, not for her.
When we felt sad, we were told to wipe the frown off our faces. No matter what we were feeling, we had to pretend that everything was just fine.
The rules of a narcissistic family stifle healthy emotional development, forcing members to forgo their own needs and good judgment.
Collection
[
|
...
]