New Mother Chooses No-Contact With Narcissistic Father Who's More Interested In Brother's Name Change Than Her Delicate Pregnancy

Some people might remember their dad always had a knack for turning every story into one about himself, or perhaps he was a bit too invested in their achievements, whether in sports or school. These behaviors might be the stuff of "dad jokes" nowadays, but having a truly narcissistic dad is definitely no joke.

Narcissistic fathers are all about themselves – they're too absorbed in and have too much admiration for themselves. They're willing to put their own needs above everyone else's, even their own kids.

Growing up with a narcissistic father can have a lasting impact, but it's important to know that setting boundaries can help protect against further harm. One Redditor, in particular, decided to go with the highest level of boundary-setting.

She went no-contact with her father. In an "Am I The A**hole?" (AITA) post, she details how her father reacted after hearing that her brother changed his last name.

The original poster (OP), who recently became a mom, found herself in a tough situation with her 58-year-old father. The tension within the family had always been present, especially between her dad and one of her five siblings, a brother with whom her father had a volatile relationship.

Last year, things reached a breaking point when the brother decided to change his name. Fast forward to the OP giving birth to her baby prematurely, undergoing an emergency C-section, and spending seven stressful weeks in the NICU.

Seeking support from her father, she texted him the news of his grandchild's arrival but received no response until the day after Christmas. To her dismay, her father didn't inquire about the baby's well-being or offer any support.

Instead, he wanted to discuss the brother's name change. The OP confronted her father, expressing her disappointment and promptly cutting off all contact.

The OP wanted to know if she was the a-hole for deciding to go no-contact with her father, who never showed concern for her delicate pregnancy.

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The OP tells the community about the relationship between her siblings and father. The relationship was so volatile that her brother decided to change his name.

She also had to undergo a C-section. The baby had to come out 10 weeks earlier.

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She texted her dad about what happened and only heard from him after Christmas.

But her father was more interested in the name change than in her and her baby's condition.

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The Impact of Narcissistic Parenting

Narcissistic parenting can have lasting effects on children's emotional development. Research from the Journal of Child Psychology highlights that children raised by narcissistic parents often struggle with self-esteem and identity issues. The Redditor's decision to establish no contact with their father indicates awareness of the potential harm that such a relationship can inflict on their own emotional well-being.

Understanding the dynamics of narcissistic relationships can help individuals set healthy boundaries that promote their mental health.

A Redditor believes that the OP's dad is narcissistic. If she needed to cut him out of her life, then she should.

The OP was also called out for using an ableist slur.

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She's better off not having a father with that kind of attitude in her life.

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More people are calling her out for using an ableist slur.

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Furthermore, the concept of emotional cutoff becomes relevant in situations involving narcissistic parents. A study from the University of Virginia indicates that individuals who disengage from toxic familial relationships often experience relief and improved mental health outcomes. The Redditor's choice to prioritize their mental well-being over familial obligations reflects a growing recognition of the importance of self-care.

Recognizing when to step back from harmful relationships is crucial for emotional healing.

One didn't even bother reading the post after seeing the word. They simply told the OP she's the a-hole for using the ableist slur.

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One Redditor defended the OP, asserting that she wasn't using it in the context of ableism.

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Another Redditor pointed out that the OP needed to be educated about the word.

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Strategies for Healing and Boundaries

To promote healing in the aftermath of a narcissistic relationship, individuals can benefit from therapeutic support. Research from the American Psychological Association emphasizes that therapy can provide valuable tools for understanding and processing complex family dynamics. Setting clear boundaries with narcissistic individuals can empower individuals to reclaim their space and emotional health.

Engaging in self-care practices, such as mindfulness and journaling, can also support emotional healing and resilience.

The OP has the power to keep her dad away from her and her child's life. If she feels the relationship is unhealthy and maintaining it will only lead to frustration and disappointment, going no-contact is better for the sake of her mental health.

She does need to be careful with the words she uses, though. At least the Redditors made her aware of the meaning behind the word she used in the post.

Psychological Analysis

This case illustrates the significant impact of narcissistic parenting on emotional well-being. It's crucial for individuals to recognize the importance of establishing boundaries to protect their mental health. Acknowledging the need for self-care can lead to healthier relationships and improved emotional resilience.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, the effects of narcissistic parenting can have profound implications for emotional well-being. Research supports the notion that setting boundaries and seeking therapeutic support are vital steps in healing from such experiences.

By prioritizing their mental health, individuals can create healthier relationships in the future.