Good Woman Programming: Why You Tolerate Emotional Neglect

Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast · Jan 19, 2026 · 12m

You've been taught that your value comes from what you give, not from having needs of your own. From childhood, you learned that being a 'good woman' means being selfless, nurturing, and always putting everyone else first—no matter what it costs you emotionally. The problem is, this programming doesn't just shape how you see yourself. It shapes how narcissistic family members and partners treat you. They know you've been conditioned to find your worth in service, to tolerate emotional neglect as a sign of your generosity, and to blame yourself when relationships feel one-sided and draining.•…