This Is What You’re Like When Raised by Narcissistic Parents

Narcissistic parents often emotionally neglect their children, focusing almost entirely on their own struggles. If you grew up in this kind of environment, you’re likely very sensitive, and it shows in your self-confidence. You tend to blame yourself in every situation, believing that if you had been a bit smarter, prettier, or more obedient, your parents would have paid more attention to you. This pattern often continues into your adult relationships, where you’re convinced that any conflict is entirely your fault.

If you’re naturally sensitive and empathetic, it’s common to find yourself drawn to narcissistic people even as an adult. You might often end up with partners like this because you feel like you don’t deserve better. Your expectations might be lower than they should be! Selfishness is almost nonexistent in you—you give everything to your partner. Over time, you get used to being overshadowed and silenced in the relationship.

Your love life might be ruled by one of two fears: either you’re terrified of commitment, afraid someone will break your heart again, so you shut people out—even friends. Or you cling so tightly to your current partner that you literally chase after them to keep the relationship alive. You crave their time and attention, and when you don’t get it, your emotional well-being takes a hit.

While independence sounds great, it can sometimes cross a line. Children of narcissistic parents often love excitement and adventure but reject intimacy, believing no one is truly trustworthy. Since you didn’t experience much love from your parents, you tend to keep your feelings to yourself. This can lead you to develop narcissistic traits yourself—striving to be the brightest, loudest person in the room so you never feel small again.

Growing up with narcissistic parents often leads to serious emotional challenges in adulthood, which bring high levels of stress. This can quickly develop into chronic anxiety, emotional emptiness, and depression as your positive outlook fades. You focus so much on surviving current struggles that you lose sight of your future and your dreams.