Childhood sexual abuse can sometimes reach into adulthood and result in a mother that is emotionally withdrawn, dependent on her children for emotional support, and unable to take on the role of an adult. [1]<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Children are hardwired to try and please their parents, as this allows the parent to nurture and guide their children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Being a parent who is emotionally withdrawn and dependent for emotional support will result in two things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In other words, the parent is exploiting their children in a one-sided relationship that robs the child of the comfort and attention that is required for development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is referred to as parentification. [2]<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Comfort and attention show children that they can trust others and fosters a healthy attachment style. Exploitation, and lack of comfort will show children that people are selfish, exploitative and cannot be trusted. [3]<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reference<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n [1]: The Body Keeps Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk<\/p>\n\n\n\n [2]: Harming Your Child by Making Him Your Parent (psychcentral.com)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n