Emotional Immaturity in Parents: How It Shows Up in Your Adult Life
Dr. Lindsay Gibson
Ever feel like you're the one holding it all together, while someone else creates the chaos?
Tamsen sits down with Dr. Lindsay Gibson, clinical psychologist and author of the New York Times bestselling book Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, to talk about the emotional patterns we carry from childhood into midlife, and what happens when they start to crack.
They break down the four types of emotionally immature parents: the emotional, the driven, the passive, and the rejecting. And how each one leaves its mark on your confidence, your relationships, and the way you see yourself
They talk about:
– Why high-functioning women still feel “not good enough”
– The deep loneliness that shows up in midlife (even when you're surrounded by people)
– The role of “healing fantasies” and why they keep us stuck
– What brain scramble is and how to protect your peace in tough conversations
– How to finally stop carrying emotional responsibility for everyone else
This one gets to the heart of those quiet insecurities we don’t always say out loud, but feel deeply.
2:25 - How to Recognize Emotional Immaturity in Therapy
4:49 - What is Emotional Immaturity in a Parent?
6:50 - The Four Types of Emotionally Immature Parents
9:35 - Which Type of Parent Is Most Common?
12:01 - How Each Type of Parent Affects You in Adulthood
15:26 - Understanding Emotional Loneliness in Midlife
21:21 - Why Midlife Is Your Last, Best Chance to Become Yourself
25:07 - Caring for Emotionally Immature Aging Parents
30:15 - Healing Fantasies: Hoping Emotionally Immature Parents Will Change
36:40 - How to Handle Being ‘Brain Scrambled’ in Difficult Conversations
41:15 - Reconnecting with Your Authentic Self After Years of Hiding
45:29 - How To Stop Feeling Like You’re Crazy
Watch the Full Episode Here: https://www.youtube.com/@TamsenFadalTV
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You can find Dr. Reardon here:
Get her book: Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents
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Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or treatment options. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Tamsen Show.
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I’m an Emmy Award-winning journalist, filmmaker, author, speaker, certified integrative nutrition coach, and passionate menopause advocate.
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