Posted by Penny on November 24, 2003, at 12:26:53
In reply to What was your childhood like?, posted by Elle2021 on November 24, 2003, at 0:43:32
Both of my parents smoked pot in front of me from the time I was very young. It was a mixed message - no, there's nothing wrong with it BUT don't tell anyone! I grew up being the 'adult' in the family. My dad had an explosive temper (which I was always told I inherited) and was verbally/emotionally abusive. My mom appeared 'weak' to me, she would for the most part take whatever my dad dished out and keep her mouth shut. Stereotypical battered wife behavior, though he didn't physically batter. I ended up mothering my younger brother, who is 6 years my junior.
Now that I am an adult, I have major issues with intimacy. Most every therapist I have seen has asked if I was sexually abused - I don't have any recollection of being sexually abused, but I react to intimacy in a way that would suggest I was. I pretty much don't date (have been on a *few* dates) and am comfortable with men as long as they are 'safe', i.e. there's no risk of them being attracted to me. But, truly, the only man I've ever fully trusted (and I struggle with this) is my pdoc.
poster:Penny
thread:283075
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20031123/msgs/283221.html