Woman Fed-Up With Estranged Family After Mom Photoshopped Her Into A Christmas Card Without Her Knowledge

Family problems can put people in situations where communication is difficult. While some of these rifts take a long time to manifest, other family ties shift suddenly and unpredictably.

It's likely that a significant life event can exacerbate tensions or that existing family issues will "knock on" and affect your relationships with other people. Disownment, or family estrangement, is a difficult process.

There are people who have experienced rejection from a family unit or have broken off communication for a variety of reasons specific to themselves. If a family member has abused you, it's very hard to maintain contact with them, and it may be quite dangerous to carry on a sincere relationship without the proper professional help and intervention.

Unfortunately, those family members who did not believe you or who knew about the abuse but were unable to assist you can also be affected by this. The OP of today's story became estranged from her parents and six siblings.

They've rarely spoken in recent years, and reconciliation attempts have also failed. It all started when the OP's brother defrauded her out of $170K.

Despite evidence of dishonesty, the OP's father sided with her brother, who was already unconsciously favored. They also gaslit and ignored the OP, and her mom and sister were in on it too.

The OP became fed up with the whole situation when her mother photoshopped her into a Christmas card without telling her. Read the full story for yourself below.

The headline

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This story is about greed, integrity, respect, family, and love lost

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“You’re making things up! Stop discussing the past. You’re too sensitive.”

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Understanding Family Dynamics and Estrangement

Dr. Michael Lee, a family therapist at the University of California, Berkeley, explains that estrangement can often stem from unresolved conflicts and unmet expectations within families.

His research shows that when family members feel disrespected or overlooked, it can lead to a breakdown in communication and trust, making estrangement a potential outcome.

In this case, the act of photoshopping a family member into a picture without consent can symbolize deeper issues related to respect and integrity.

The Impact of Family Relationships on Identity

Family relationships play a significant role in shaping an individual's identity and self-esteem. According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, experiences of validation and acceptance from family members can profoundly influence one’s self-concept.

In cases where boundaries are violated, such as being photoshopped into a family card without consent, it can lead to feelings of disrespect and alienation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for healing and rebuilding connections.

Good people own their mistakes, care for, and don’t betray loved ones

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In conclusion...

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The OP shares what her work's about

I did see a lawyer. He said I have a case and that what my father is doing is wrong. Sadly, I don't have the money yet to sue him. Hopefully, I will soon. My business was disrupted by the pandemic. As a side note, I was really proud of my work, though. I was rescuing furniture on its way to the landfill, fixing it, and then selling it. I felt good about helping the environment.

And the comments from other Redditors roll in...

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The emotional ramifications of such actions can be profound. A study published in the Journal of Family Psychology highlights the significance of consent and authenticity in family interactions, suggesting that violations can lead to long-lasting emotional scars.

When trust is broken, it often requires considerable effort to rebuild those relationships.

This situation highlights the complex interplay between image, identity, and family expectations. A study by Dr. Susan Fiske at Princeton University reveals that our self-image is often tied to our perceived value within social groups, including family. When individuals feel misrepresented or excluded, it can trigger deep-seated feelings of betrayal and loss.

Recognizing these emotional responses as normal is essential in moving towards healing and reconciliation.

Make it miserable for everyone

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She should have respected the OP's decision

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This Redditor suggests the OP change her number and go fully no contact

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The Role of Integrity in Family Relationships

Integrity is a cornerstone of healthy family relationships. According to research by the American Psychological Association, families that prioritize honesty and transparency tend to have stronger bonds.

When integrity is compromised, as seen in this case, it can lead to feelings of betrayal and resentment, further complicating family dynamics.

Navigating Feelings of Betrayal

Feelings of betrayal in family relationships can be particularly challenging to navigate. Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, emphasizes that "betrayal can create a deep sense of loss and disconnection, even when family members are physically present." For individuals coping with these feelings, she recommends engaging in self-reflection and open communication. According to her, "expressing feelings honestly can foster understanding and pave the way for healing." For more insights, visit her professional website at dralexandrasolomon.com.

They are deranged, and this Redditor doesn't know how to tell the OP to make it right

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Why should the OP care about them?

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Letting everyone know she wasn't there

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To heal from such breaches, families may benefit from guided discussions facilitated by a therapist. Establishing a safe space for open dialogue can help family members express their feelings and work towards rebuilding trust.

Additionally, engaging in family therapy can provide tools for navigating complex emotions and conflicts.

To address feelings of betrayal, it can be helpful to establish personal boundaries. Research indicates that clearly defined boundaries can lead to healthier family interactions and greater emotional well-being. Individuals should consider discussing their feelings with family members to clarify expectations and foster a more supportive environment.

Engaging in family therapy can also provide a safe space for these discussions, allowing individuals to express their feelings without fear of retribution.

The OP is glad to report that she has stopped investing with her family after she was first defrauded. It took many years for successful investments to mature, and two of the liquidity events from these old investments occurred more recently.

The OP's father has refused to pay her old investment with him. Redditors dissected the whole issue, and the OP was declared not the AH.

The Importance of Open Communication

Open communication is essential in addressing conflicts within family relationships. According to research in conflict resolution, fostering an environment where all members feel safe to express their feelings can lead to healthier dynamics. Encouraging family discussions about feelings of exclusion can help validate individual experiences and promote healing.

By engaging in these conversations, families can work towards understanding each other's perspectives and rebuilding trust.

Psychological Analysis

This scenario highlights the profound impact of family relationships on individual identity. The act of photoshopping can be seen as a violation of personal boundaries, leading to feelings of alienation. It's important for individuals in this situation to articulate their feelings to foster understanding and potentially repair the familial bond.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, navigating feelings of betrayal and misrepresentation in family dynamics is complex but essential for emotional well-being. As highlighted by various studies, fostering open communication and establishing boundaries can significantly enhance relationships. With the right strategies, families can work towards healing and rebuilding connections.

The Importance of Authenticity in Family Connections

Authenticity fosters deeper connections within families. Research has shown that families that encourage genuine self-expression are more likely to experience satisfaction and harmony in their relationships.

Creating an environment where each member feels valued for who they are can mitigate the risk of estrangement and promote healthier interactions.

Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights the complex emotions surrounding family estrangement and the need for clear boundaries and respect. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial for healing and rebuilding connections.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Estrangement often reflects deeper issues within family dynamics, particularly around respect and integrity. Building healthier relationships requires a commitment to open communication and authenticity.