Category: Narcissistic Abuse in Families

If you were raised in a household where narcissistic practices were a constant, it’s natural for you to ask yourself, “Am I a narcissistic parent?” You may wonder how much of your parent’s behaviors and attitudes you inherited. The very fact that you are questioning your actions toward your kid is proof you are not automatically a self-absorbed parent yourself. Narcissistic parents usually do not doubt their way of doing things, as they consider it to be the only right way to do them. If you recognize some of your parents’ attitudes and behaviors in yourself, you may experience guilt...

What narcissist parents say wires their child’s brain and the way they experience the world.  Positive talk contributes to a balanced way of thinking and processing information. On the other hand, directive, cold talk alters kids’ sense of safety and self-esteem. Narcissistic parents excel at making their kids feel unimportant, and language is one of the most powerful tools by which they do this. Unresolved self-esteem issues caused by harsh talk can continue when children become adults and turn into trust and communication difficulties. [Read Things Narcissists Say to Give Themselves Away] In this article, you’ll find out more about...

Growing up with a narcissistic mother can have a harmful impact on your adult relationships. Our early relationship with our parents has a long-term effect on the way we perceive ourselves, the world, and other social interactions: work, school, friendships, or romantic relationships. The relationship with our mother is significant because it implies a natural, powerful bond that is usually nurturing for the child. Unfortunately, it’s the opposite with narcissistic mothers–the child is held responsible for meeting the mother’s needs. This kind of childhood interaction can lead to low self-esteem, intimacy and trust issues, a flawed sense of self, and...

A childhood spent being raised by narcissistic parents who are self-absorbed, manipulative, and have little to no empathy can lead to serious adult life struggles. Narcissism is a broad term that describes not just a clinical diagnosis. It’s also a set of behaviors, attitudes, and language that involves a sense of entitlement, grandiosity, aggression toward others, and shallow emotions.  If this description already reminds you of one of your parents’ behavior, continue reading to check if your adult emotional issues result from parental narcissism. What is Parental Narcissism?  As J.N. Leggio, Ph.D., states in his doctoral thesis, parental narcissism is...