Trait 2: Refusal to Accept Responsibility
Covert narcissist mothers rarely admit wrongdoing. Any conflict is attributed to you, creating confusion, especially in young children who idolize their parents. If you grow up being told that everything is your fault, you internalize the belief that there’s something wrong with you.
Trait 3: Preoccupation with Image
These mothers are often obsessed with projecting a perfect image. They want to be seen as the ideal mom, and if you don’t align with that image, you become the “bad” child. This discrepancy between public persona and private reality can be deeply confusing for a child.
Trait 4: Vindictiveness
Covert narcissist mothers can be vindictive and cruel toward anyone who opposes them. As a child, you learn to be cautious. A client I worked with felt isolated because her mother would portray her as the problem in front of others. Confrontation often leads to severe backlash.
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