When is enough, enough? (S4 Ep.8)

Did I do the right thing? Am I being unreasonable?This week we hear from a listener who grew up with a controlling father who monitored finances, belittled her mother, mocked her intelligence, and ruled the house with, “If you live under my roof, you do as I say.” She became the responsible daughter. The fixer. The emotional support system. The one who stayed close.After decades of being pulled into her parents’ toxic marriage, she set a boundary: Don’t involve me in your disputes anymore. Her mother apologised. Her father stopped speaking to her. In this episode, we explore:Growing up with a narcissistic or controlling fatherBeing the scapegoat vs. the golden childParentification and becoming the family therapistSetting boundaries with narcissistic parentsThe silent treatment as punishmentBreaking generational trauma when you become a parentThe grief of unavailable grandparentsIf you were the “responsible one.”If you were triangulated into your parents’ conflict.If you’ve ever been punished for having boundaries.If becoming a mum or dad made you realise just how unhealthy your childhood was.This conversation will feel painfully familiar — and deeply validating.Follow Dr. Ruth Callaghan on TikTokFollow Dr Ruth Callaghan on Instagramwww.callaghancounselling.ieQuiz - "Are You Really Going From Zero to Ten?"Find out where you're actually starting fromBEYOND SURVIVAL - The Therapy Podcast