On top of the abuse and neglect, denial heaps more hurt upon the child by requiring the child to alienate herself from reality and her own experience. In troubled families, abuse and neglect are permitted; it's the talking about them that is forbidden.

~ Marcia Sirota

Marcia Sirota Abuse Alienation Child Abuse Childhood Abuse Denial Deny Family Secrets Forbidden Hidden Incest Neglect Parenting Pretend Reality Secret

Humor is the honey in my tea.

~ Marcia Sirota

Marcia Sirota Inspirational Inspirational Quote

If you feel ashamed about your need for love & support, it's because you were made to feel this way as a child. It's not a sign of weakness to want affirmation, reassurance or someone to count on; these are natural, appropriate needs. Just make sure to be there for yourself first.

~ Marcia Sirota

Marcia Sirota Ashamed Emotional Needs Needy Shame Weakness

Because children take everything personally, they believe that if they are being mistreated, it's because they haven't been “good enough.” Being good as an adult makes them believe, incorrectly, that they have some control in life. They think that they will be rewarded for their goodness and that it will protect them from harm.

~ Marcia Sirota

Marcia Sirota Child Abuse Child Abuse Survivors Child Maltreatment Control Issues Controlled Emotional Abuse Good Enough People Pleasing Perfectionism