Pathological enmeshment refers to an unhealthy and dysfunctional form of emotional attachment between two individuals, typically a parent and child or between romantic partners. It involves a lack of emotional boundaries and a blurring of identities, where one person’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors become enmeshed with the other, leading to a loss of individuality and a sense of self.
In pathological enmeshment, the dominant individual, often a parent or partner, may use guilt, manipulation, or other forms of emotional control to maintain the relationship and prevent the other person from establishing healthy boundaries or pursuing their own goals and interests. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-worth for the person who is enmeshed.
Pathological enmeshment is often a component of other mental health conditions, such as borderline personality disorder or narcissistic personality disorder, and it can be difficult to address without professional help. Treatment may involve therapy to help the enmeshed individual establish healthy boundaries, develop a sense of self, and work through the emotional trauma associated with the enmeshment. It may also involve family therapy to address the dynamics of the relationship and help all parties involved to establish healthier ways of relating to each other.
©Linda Turner http://parentalalienationpas.com 2023
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