Why do narcissistic parents infantilize their children?

Parents who suffer from narcissistic tendencies are inclined to infantilize their children because they likely see their children as an extension of themselves. It can be paralyzing as they learn to navigate the world on their own because their parents just stepped in to do things for them when they were younger.

Why do parents infantilize adult children?

“Infantilization can be a way to maintain power over someone and prevent them from being a functioning adult,” says Benton. This may even be borne of the best intentions of not wanting to see your child get hurt, but it can cause children to doubt their own decision-making skills for years to come.

How are children affected by narcissistic parents?

Due to their vulnerability, children are extremely affected by the behavior of a narcissistic parent. A narcissistic parent will often abuse the normal parental role of guiding their children and being the primary decision maker in the child’s life, becoming overly possessive and controlling.

How narcissistic mothers damage their daughters?

Narcissistic mothers and daughters often become seriously enmeshed with each other, which daughters tend to experience as a feeling of suffocation and entrapment. Any move by the daughter to escape is taken as a severe rejection on the part of the mother.

Do narcissists see their children as extensions of themselves?

“Narcissistic parents view their children as extensions of themselves — experiencing emotional separation or boundaries as a rejection,” says Dr. Narcissistic parents are self-involved, can view their children as possessions, and struggle to see their kid’s actions as anything more than an extension of themselves.

How do I protect my child from narcissistic grandparents?

How to Deal with Narcissistic Grandparents

1. Think before speaking. Before visiting or speaking to a narcissist, remember that they are narcissistic.
2. Remember, it is all about them.
3. Refuse to be treated like a child.
4. Reject verbal assaults.
5. Be free of victimization.

Can a narcissist be obsessed with their child?

The obsession or focus a narcissistic parent has on a child often has to do with the parent’s own emotional needs. Narcissistic parents support children’s “greatness” and encourage their talents, with the excuse that they love their child and are sacrificing themselves for the child’s future.