narcissistic family

malignant narcissist and family scapegoat

FSA and Malignant Narcissism: Impact and Recovery Strategies

by Rebecca C. Mandeville, MA
June 9, 2024June 15, 2024

Surviving Family Scapegoating Abuse (FSA) can leave lasting scars on individuals, impacting their mental and emotional well-being for years to come. At the heart of certain (not all) FSA dynamics lies the phenomenon of malignant narcissism, a complex personality disorder not included in the DSM-5. Malignant narcissism is characterized by a toxic blend of narcissistic, antisocial, and (at time) sadistic traits. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of malignant narcissism, its effects on victims of FSA, and strategies for healing and recovery.

Scapegoating in Narcissistic Family Systems

by Rebecca C Mandeville LMFT CCTP
February 4, 2023May 24, 2024
6 Comments

My latest video on narcissistic families and scapegoating explores family systems that are dominated by a narcissistic parent. This would be a parent that meets the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder or who displays strong narcissistic traits.

Scapegoat Recovery and Recognizing Damaging Unspoken Family Rules

by Rebecca C Mandeville LMFT CCTP
January 21, 2023May 24, 2024
13 Comments

A Warm Welcome to Our New Subscribers! I’ve posted a new video on 10 UNSPOKEN FAMILY RULES that support family… Read More »Scapegoat Recovery and Recognizing Damaging Unspoken Family Rules

pine trees by lake in forest against sky

Going Beyond Family Scapegoating Abuse (FSA)

by Rebecca C Mandeville LMFT CCTP
October 28, 2022May 24, 2024
3 Comments

“He says the best way out is always through. / And I can agree to that, or in so far… Read More »Going Beyond Family Scapegoating Abuse (FSA)

woman with cross symbol on mouth unable to speak

10 Rules of Families That Scapegoat

by Rebecca C Mandeville LMFT CCTP
August 5, 2022May 24, 2024
34 Comments

A family that is dominated by a dysfunctional or narcissistic parent may result in its members living under a set of unspoken ‘rules’, rules which benefit the parent at the expense of their children’s well-being. The research I conducted on what I named family scapegoating abuse (FSA) suggests that dysfunctional families that scapegoat are also governed by a specific set of rules. This article reviews ten rules that I have identified as being evident in families that scapegoat one of their own.