Summary of Susan Forward & Craig Buck's Toxic Parents

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 The ancient Greeks had a problem. The gods looked down from their ethereal playground atop Mount Olympus and passed judgment on everything the Greeks were up to. And if the gods weren’t pleased, they were swift to punish. They didn’t have to be kind; they didn’t have to be just; they didn’t even have to be right. #2 Our culture and religions all agree that the omnipotence of parental authority is acceptable, and it’s taboo to assertively confront our parents. The fear of being struck by lightning becomes deeply ingrained and grows with the child. #3 As a child’s self-esteem is undermined, his dependence on his parents grows, and with it his need to believe that they are there to protect and provide. These beliefs keep the faith alive, allowing you to avoid facing the painful truth that your parents actually betrayed you when you were most vulnerable. #4 Sandy, a 28-year-old woman, was extremely depressed when she first came to see me. She told me that she was unhappy with everything in her life. She had been a floral designer for several years at a prestigious shop, but she was convinced that she wasn’t smart enough to succeed.