By design, one or more narcissistic parent(s) have created a disturbing and unhealthy relational connection between the family-assigned roles of scapegoat and golden child. Neither role is desirable, and both suffer consequences—not only in how they relate to the narcissistic parent, but with each other.In this episode of The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast, we discuss the harrowing relational dynamics between these two roles, which often continue well into adulthood.We examine:
- How narcissistic parents assign roles early—and why they rarely change
- Why the golden child is rewarded for loyalty, while the scapegoat is punished for truth
- How triangulation and emotional neglect keep the roles locked in place
- Why the golden child often can’t support the scapegoat—even in adulthood
- What happens when one sibling heals—and the other stays in performance mode
This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt erased by their own family. If you’ve been cast as the “difficult one” while someone else was praised for playing along, this conversation brings clarity to a system that was never about fairness.Download the episode. Sometimes naming what’s happening is the first quiet step toward seeing it clearly.
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See also Episode 89, “The Silent Brotherhood,” for deeper insight into male loyalty codes, and highlight Lynn’s book Master Manipulators—now on Audible—for a full breakdown of covert narcissistic tactics.🎧 To hear this full episode, go to
waketheelephant.gumroad.com/l/hiddenloyaltyNarcissistic Abuse Recovery PodcastHosted by trauma-informed coach & author Lynn, this podcast helps survivors of narcissistic abuse uncover covert manipulation, set boundaries, and reclaim their voice. From family roles to patriarchy, we explore how personal healing intersects with cultural change.🌐 Links & resources:
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