In closing, let me add that I'm well aware that not all the problems in becoming comfortably independent as adults can be traced back to our parenting. Many other environmental factors must also be considered, as well as biological and genetic ones. But I do believe that parental deficiencies typically account for the greatest part of our struggles to become self-reliant, autonomous adults. So if we're having dependency and self-esteem issues, it's imperative that we focus on "re-parenting" ourselves--on learning how to give ourselves what our parents simply could not. Only then can we--independently--learn how to navigate our own successful path through life.

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Tags: actions and reactions, adult autonomy, apprehension, bondage, caretakers, childhood insecurity, confusion, contrary, disappointments, emotional states, good graces, hot buttons, parental bonding, parentified children, reassurance, sanctuary, solace, states of mind, succor, unhealthy dependency