The Scapegoat & the Golden Child: Healing the Wounds of Family Blame & Favouritism with Katy Bodman
June 27 @ 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
Today we will together explore the complex family dynamics of the scapegoat and the golden child through a person-centred therapeutic lens—one rooted in empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a deep belief in each individual’s innate capacity for growth and healing.
In families impacted by narcissistic traits, these roles are often unconsciously assigned to meet the emotional needs of the system, rather than the individual. While the golden child may be idealised and burdened with unrealistic expectations, the scapegoat is often blamed, pathologised, and emotionally exiled. Both roles carry profound and distinct forms of pain. This course invites us to compassionately explore how these dynamics shape not only a client’s self-concept, but also their sense of worth, autonomy, and ability to connect in relationships.
We will consider why these patterns are so compelling and enduring in narcissistic family systems, how they obscure genuine connection in favour of control and image, and how we can provide the conditions that support clients to reconnect with their true selves and move beyond these roles and into a fuller, more authentic life.
