Kristin Cavallari Calls Breaking Ties With Her Father a Life-Changing Decision

Cutting ties with family, especially a parent, is never an easy decision. However, sometimes it’s necessary to protect your peace and the well-being of your loved ones. Kristin Cavallari recently opened up about making that tough call with her father, Dennis Cavallari, and why she has no regrets about it.

The Uncommon James founder didn’t hold back when discussing why she cut her dad out of her life.

“Honestly, and this might sound messed up to some people, but it’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” she said in an interview published this week. Kristin was clear that the decision came after her father crossed a line with her children, something she simply couldn’t accept.

She added, “Such a weight has been lifted from me. There’s not one day when I miss him.”

The 38-year-old mom explained that the situation had built up over decades.

“I don’t know if it was two or three years ago, but I mean, I was an adult; let’s say I was 35. It was 35 years of buildup to that point.”

Kristin shares three kids with her ex-husband Jay Cutler: daughter Saylor, 9, and sons Camden, 12, and Jaxon, 11. While she didn’t go into detail about what exactly happened between her dad and the kids, it’s clear the incident was serious enough to push her to end their relationship.

"I don’t have time for that anymore."

What stood out was how Kristin described her feelings afterward. She said, “He crossed the boundary with my kids,” and that after the event, her dad “couldn’t even apologize.” She added, “Like, you’re just gaslighting me. I don’t have time for that anymore.”

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"Life’s too short."

Her words reflect a boundary that many people face with difficult family members. Kristin summed it up plainly: “If someone’s not bringing you joy, if people are only bringing you hurt, sadness, and anger, what is the point? Even if it’s a parent, life’s too short.”

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"I cut my dad out of my life about two years ago"

This isn’t the first time Kristin has been open about her troubled relationship with her father. Back in December 2023, on her podcast “Let’s Be Honest,” she called him a “narcissist” and shared more about the personal journey that led to cutting him off.

“I cut my dad out of my life about two years ago, which has honestly been the best thing I’ve ever done, really and truly,” she told psychologist Dr. Sherrie Campbell during the episode.

Kristin admitted she didn’t even realize her dad was a narcissist until she was an adult, which made understanding the situation and setting boundaries even more complicated.

She also explained that while she had dealt with issues with her dad for years, it was the moment he involved her children that finally pushed her over the edge.

“I was always like, I can take it. You know, I can take the abuse. I have my whole life. But it’s like, when you start now messing with my kids, I’m not doing it.”Instagram

Navigating Toxic Relationships

Dr. Angela Duckworth, a leading psychologist, emphasizes the importance of recognizing toxicity in relationships, even within families. In her work on grit and resilience, she notes that identifying unhealthy dynamics is crucial for emotional well-being. When individuals like Kristin Cavallari make the brave choice to sever ties, they often reclaim their agency and mental peace.

Duckworth suggests that setting clear boundaries and engaging in self-reflection can aid in understanding one's emotional triggers. This proactive approach can foster healthier relationships and improve overall life satisfaction.

Family dynamics can be profoundly complex, with emotional ties often complicating our ability to make healthy choices. Relationship expert Dr. Terri Orbuch explains that recognizing unhealthy patterns is key to breaking the cycle of toxicity. In her research, she finds that survival strategies in dysfunctional families can hinder personal growth.

Orbuch recommends tangible steps, such as journaling about feelings and seeking professional support, to navigate these challenges. By doing so, individuals can cultivate healthier connections while fortifying their emotional resilience.

Kristin’s story shines a light on something many people face but rarely admit: sometimes, family causes more pain than support. Protecting your mental health means drawing a line, and yes, even cutting ties with a parent. Her choice proves that setting boundaries isn’t weakness; it’s often the relief you need.

Deciding this isn’t easy, especially with all the pressure to keep “family” together no matter what. But as Kristin put it bluntly, if someone brings nothing but pain and no happiness, why keep them in your life at all?

Her message is clear and powerful: your peace and your kids’ well-being come first. For Kristin Cavallari, walking away from her father was a turning point, a move that gave her a freedom she hadn’t known in years.

Kristin Cavallari's decision to cut ties with her father highlights a significant emotional journey many face when confronting toxicity in familial relationships. Experts like Dr. John Gray suggest that understanding one's emotional needs and establishing boundaries can be life-altering.

By prioritizing mental health and seeking support, individuals can transform their lives. As noted by Dr. Angela Duckworth, fostering resilience and self-awareness leads to healthier interpersonal connections. Ultimately, taking these steps can pave the way for more nurturing relationships and a fulfilling life.