What to Say When Someone Minimizes Your Narcissistic Parent’s Behavior
Here are some scripts you can make your own to help you have these conversations.
Some people may not understand what happened in your home or how your family operates. Because of this, they may be dismissive or unable to sit with your experiences. It’s also common for people who grow up in narcissistic families to be afraid of honesty or sharing their story. Here are some scripts you can make your own to help you have these conversations.
“Maybe they were doing the best they could with what they had. But that still doesn’t make it okay.”
“I’m allowed to decide what I do with their behavior. Just because it’s familiar doesn’t mean it’s safe or respectful.”
“I only get one mom, but having one doesn’t mean I have to accept harmful behavior. I can still protect myself.”
“They may not have been that bad to you. But I’m the one who lived with them behind closed doors.”
“Love without accountability isn’t love. I’m saying their version of love was harmful.”
“I’m not asking you to agree with every detail. I’m asking you to respect that my experience shaped me and that it hurt.”
“I know you don’t understand it, and I need you to at least believe me.”