Dr. Lindsay Gibson: Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People

Thoughts on Record: Podcast of the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

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Navigating relationships with emotionally immature parents can evoke very strong reactions, which can be difficult to navigate. In many clinician's experience, when this topic comes up, people tend to react in one of three ways: defending their parents as perfect, blaming them for all their struggles, or questioning their own perceptions entirely - all of which can create stuck points. Author and psychologist, Dr. Lindsay Gibson, who has written and lectured extensively on the topic of emotional immaturity joins us for a discussion of some of the core themes covered in her new book “Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People”. In this discussion we cover:

• why has this topic been such a focus over her career
• the kinds of emotional activation in clients can that flow from discussions around emotionally immature parents.
• the key traits that distinguish emotionally immature people from those who are more emotionally mature
• developmental factors that contribute to emotional immaturity in adults
• recognizing emotional immaturity in parents to help adult children heal from past traumas
• the primary coping mechanisms that emotionally immature people use, and how these impact their relationships
• practical steps can adult children take to set and maintain healthy boundaries with emotionally immature parents
• best practices for communicating effectively with emotionally immature parents, especially during conflicts
• considering whether forgiveness is necessary for healing from the impact of emotionally immature parents, and what alternatives exist if forgiveness is not feasible
• how can adult children of emotionally immature parents focus on building healthy, fulfilling relationships outside of their family of origin

Lindsay C. Gibson, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with more than thirty years’ experience working in both public service and private practice. Her books—including the #1 Amazon best seller, Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents—have sold more than a million copies, and have been translated into thirty-seven languages. In the past, Dr. Gibson has served as an adjunct assistant professor, teaching doctoral clinical psychology students clinical theory and psychotherapy techniques. She specializes in therapy and coaching with adults to attain new levels of personal growth, emotional intimacy with others, and confidence in dealing with emotionally immature family members. Her website is available at http://www.lindsaygibsonpsyd.com.