What Causes: An Adult Child

Because expressing feelings was unsafe, the child learns to numb them. As an adult, this manifests as a struggle with intimacy or an inability to handle conflict, leading to "childlike" outbursts or total emotional withdrawal when stressed. 4. The Loss of the "Play" Phase

Healthy development requires a child to gradually separate from their parents to form a unique identity. In dysfunctional homes, this process is often viewed as a threat or a betrayal. What Causes an Adult Child

This causes the adult child to take themselves and life too seriously. They often feel like "imposters" in adulthood, constantly waiting for someone to realize they are just a frightened child wearing a suit. 5. Perfectionism as a Shield Because expressing feelings was unsafe, the child learns