The Good Daughter Syndrome: How to Set Boundaries with a Narcissistic Mother

What does it mean to be ‘the good daughter’?

Being ‘the good daughter’ is a role many people step into without even realizing it. If you find yourself constantly maintaining peace, prioritizing others’ feelings over your own, and seeking your mother’s approval, you may be experiencing ‘the good daughter syndrome.’ Over time, this role can quietly wear you down, erode your mental well-being, sense of self, and energy to the point where you no longer recognize yourself.

In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist, author, daughter, and mother, Katherine Fabrizio, who coined the term "The Good Daughter Syndrome" and wrote an insightful book on the topic. In our conversation, she shares her experiences with her narcissistic mother and reflects on the moment she realized it was time to leave home and spread her wings. She also recounts stories of patients who have dealt with similar mothers with some exhibiting borderline personality disorder or an emotional immature parent. 

Together, we delve into the profound emotional impact of toxic mother-daughter relationships and explore what it means to be a daughter who feels compelled to "appease her mother," even at the cost of her own happiness.

What you’ll learn:

• The definition of “The Good Daughter Syndrome”
• Common signs that your mother may be narcissistic or have a borderline personality disorder.
• Signs that you may be experiencing “The Good Daughter Syndrome,” including people-pleasing behavior and childhood emotional neglect.
• How to set boundaries with a narcissistic mother.
• Why you might feel guilty about caring for a difficult or aging parent.
• The importance of repair in all relationships, including those with your children.
• How to begin healing from childhood trauma.

This rich and compassionate conversation about mother-daughter dynamics, self-awareness, and finding freedom is a must-listen!!  

So, grab your AirPods and take some time to listen to this important episode.

Much love,

Laurie

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.