Family Bullying: Cinderella or Cinderfella
zIf you grew up feeling like the unwanted stepchild in your own family story, you are not imagining things. Like Cinderella or Cinderfella, you may have been treated unfairly, blamed for everything that went wrong, and forced into a role where your needs, dreams, and dignity were cast aside. The family scapegoat is often expected to silently carry the weight of everyone else’s dysfunction while receiving no love, support, or recognition in return.
While fairy tales have happy endings, real-life scapegoating creates emotional wounds that do not simply disappear when you leave home. The mocking words, blame, and shame you endured can stay with you, influencing how you see yourself and how you navigate the world. But here is the truth: You were never the problem. Just like Cinderella was not responsible for the cruelty of her stepsisters, the treatment you received was a reflection of others’ brokenness—not your worth.
At Waypoint Wellness and Performance Coaching, we know that healing begins when you understand what happened, recognize how it has shaped your life, and learn how to break free. This three-part series on Family Bullying is designed to guide you through this process and help you reclaim your story:
- Series on Family Bullying: When Your Family of Origin Makes You Sick – This first article explores the profound effects of growing up in an environment dominated by narcissism, manipulation, and injustice. It helps readers understand that the pain, confusion, and self-blame they experience are direct results of a dysfunctional family system—not personal failings. Individuals who have been scapegoated can begin to see the source of their suffering and start the journey toward healing. This foundational understanding sets the stage for deeper exploration of the family dynamics in subsequent segments. It outlines how family bullying operates, with particular focus on the scapegoat role, where one member becomes the target of blame, shame, and abuse.
- Series on Family Bullying: Mobbing and Treated Like a Scapegoat – The attention of the second article delves into the role of narcissism within the family dynamic, describing in detail what is truly happening behind the scenes. It explores how narcissistic behaviours shape the family structure, create toxic patterns, and lead to the scapegoating of one individual. This segment uncovers the motivations and tactics of the narcissistic parent and their enablers, shedding light on the power dynamics, manipulation, and injustice that fuel family bullying. By understanding these dynamics, readers can begin to see the truth of their situation more clearly, laying the groundwork for eventual healing and liberation.
- Series on Family Bullying: From Scapegoat to the Champion in Your Life – In the final article, “Becoming the Champion in Your Own Life,” you will discover how to reclaim your identity, break free from toxic family roles, and step into your true strength and worth. This empowering chapter will guide you to let go of false narratives, establish healthy boundaries, and build a life defined by self-compassion, resilience, and purpose. It is time to move beyond survival, embrace healing, and become the hero of your own story—creating a future that reflects your courage, strength, and dreams.
You can reclaim your life. You can rewrite the story that was unfairly written for you. You are worthy of love, respect, and freedom. Join us as we uncover the truth and take the first steps toward healing.
To Start the Series: Read Part 1: When Your Family of Origin Makes You Sick. Click Here
To reach out to George or Lesley for coaching support head over to the contact page. Click Here
