2870: When A Parent Needs Too Much: What Is Enmeshment and How Does It Hurt A Child? by Dr. Margaret Rutherford

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Recorded16 Jan 2026

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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2870: Dr. Margaret Rutherford explores the hidden emotional toll of enmeshment, when a parent relies too heavily on their child for emotional support and identity. She reveals how this dynamic stifles independence, breeds guilt, and leaves adult children struggling with boundaries, self-trust, and autonomy, while also offering guidance on how to break the cycle and heal. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drmargaretrutherford.com/when-a-parent-needs-too-much-what-is-enmeshment-and-how-does-it-hurt-a-child/ Quotes to ponder: “If the parent represses the girl’s (or boy’s) anger not just once but over and over again, a deeper injury occurs: the girl will eventually dismantle her anger response." “When the child reaches adulthood, they can be stricken by guilt for simply wanting and needing their own life.” “Your task is to build your own sense of identity, while learning to share in healthy supportive relationships.” Episode references: Educated: https://www.amazon.com/Educated-Memoir-Tara-Westover/dp/0399590501 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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