First Born Burden (Part 2)

Why the Strong One Is Always Tired

In Part 2 of this series on The Group Sessions Podcast, we continue the conversation on the trauma of parentification—focusing on what happens when a child internalizes adult responsibilities before their brain even finishes developing.

We explore how early emotional labor shapes identity, blurs boundaries, and teaches children to earn love through over-functioning. From chronic burnout to strained sibling bonds, this episode unpacks the deeper psychological scars that come from being “the responsible one” too soon—and how many of us are still carrying those scars into our adult relationships.

We also confront the harder truths: how forced maturity can lead to distorted views of intimacy, vulnerability to grooming, and even the quiet reenactment of trauma with others—all because no one taught us how to safely receive care.

This episode offers reflection, affirmation, and an invitation to finally put the role down.

—

Robert Saint Michael, NLP

Certified Mental Health Life Coach

Master NLP Practitioner

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Referenced in this episode:

– U.S. Department of Justice: Data on child sexual abuse by known perpetrators

– Chase, N.D., & Deming, M.P. (2015). Parental role reversal and long-term relational patterns

– APA: Effects of premature responsibility and emotional parentification

– Journal of Child and Family Studies: Impacts of adultified roles on intimacy development