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Child Quote by John Bradshaw

“It is very common for one or both parents in a dysfunctional marriage to bond inappropriately with one of their children. The parents use the child to meet their emotional needs.” quote by John Bradshaw
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““It is very common for one or both parents in a dysfunctional marriage to bond inappropriately with one of their children. The parents use the child to meet their emotional needs.””

John Bradshaw

About This Quote

Source Book: Family Dynamics, 1990

Parents may inappropriately rely on a child for emotional support, harming family health.

In simple terms: Parents misuse child for emotional needs.

Key Takeaway

Set healthy boundaries.

Themes

family boundaries emotional health

Mood

cautious empathetic

Type

psychological relational

When to use this quote

  • family counseling
  • parenting workshops

Key Concepts

psychology codependency

Questions to Reflect On

  • What boundaries are needed in your family?
  • How can you support a child without overdependence?
A Different Perspective

Changing entrenched patterns is difficult.

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