I am not worthy of love
Worth tied to acceptance or performance.
“I am lovable simply because I exist.”
Love must be earned through good behavior
Obedience linked to emotional safety.
“Love is my birthright, not a reward.”
My needs are too much or inconvenient
Emotional needs dismissed or unmet.
“My needs are valid and worthy of care.”
I have no value unless I give something
Over-giving as a path to acceptance.
“My value is not tied to what I produce or provide.”
If I am not in control, I will be hurt
Control used to avoid vulnerability or chaos.
“I can be safe and open without needing to control.”
Expressing my feelings causes rejection
Truth met with silence, shame, or dismissal.
“It is safe to speak my truth and be loved for it.”
I must protect others, even at my expense
Parentification and emotional inversion in mother-child bond.
“It is safe to care without abandoning myself.”
What I feel doesn’t matter
Emotional reality repeatedly denied in favor of adult needs or romantic interests.
“My inner experience is valid and worthy of being heard.”