My Parent the Peacock cover art

My Parent the Peacock

Discovery and Recovery from Narcissistic Parenting

 Preview

Get 30 days of Premium Plus free

£8.99/month after 30-day free trial. Cancel monthly.
Try for £0.00
More purchase options
Buy Now for £12.99

Buy Now for £12.99

About this listen

 'A compelling portrait of narcissism' Charlotte Cripps, The Independent

'I made notes in the margin - "Yes! This!" - on almost every page. Susannah Jowitt, The Daily Mail

The scars inflicted on childhood by a parent with narcissistic tendencies are lasting - but they don't have to define your future. My Parent the Peacock is a compassionate, insightful and clear-eyed guide to recovery that validates your lived experience while offering practical steps towards healing and freedom.

Demythologising some of the ideas around narcissistic behaviours, acclaimed therapist Kathleen Saxton starts by explaining what narcissism is, and isn't, and why it seems to be on the increase. She offers you support to understand how having a narcissistic parent can impact your early development, and how family constellations are shaped in such households (were you the Golden Child, or the Scapegoated Child?). Pulling everything together into practical and healing strategies for moving forward, the book also covers:

* validation and self-care
* setting boundaries and expectations
* Listening to your own voice
* Breaking the generational patterns

You can escape generational trauma and find freedom; take the first steps today for a healthier, happier future.©2025 Psyched Ventures Limited Dysfunctional Families Mental Health Motherhood Parenting & Families Parents & Adult Children Psychology Psychology & Mental Health

Critic reviews

A compelling portrait of narcissism.
I made notes in the margin - 'Yes! This!' - on almost every page.
In My Parent the Peacock, Kathleen Saxton shines a light on the hidden wounds of children raised by narcissistic parents. With clinical expertise and deep compassion, she unpacks the lasting impact of these relationships and offers a path to understanding and healing. A vital, unflinching read for anyone seeking to break the cycle and protect the next generation.
Everywhere, there is far too much emphasis on the narcissist, and their interpersonal relationships, and not enough on the children and families at the heart of this insidious disorder. This book fills in this critical lacuna with research-based insight and information - a rarity in the sphere of narcissism. Recommended as THE introductory text to the topic and as an indispensable guide to further forays into the field.
The definitive guide to how to deal with the narcissist in your life, especially if they are your parent, and come out stronger on the other side. This book is incisive, substantive, practical, and profoundly moving. More than just a diagnosis, this is a path to recovery. Saxton empowers those affected to reclaim their voice, rediscover their identity, and believe in the possibility of healing. I finished the book feeling enlightened, uplifted, and deeply encouraged; a powerful reminder that even the most painful childhood can be the beginning of a fulfilling life.
All stars
Most relevant
I found this a very upsetting read. Masses of theory to sledgehammer you over the head with at the beginning - covering exactly what damage a narcissistic parent can do to a child.

Many, like me, who read this book will have been brought up by parents with narcissistic traits that caused pain and left emotional scars. If you have gone on to have your own children it is likely that you have unwittingly and unintentionally adopted some narcissistic behaviours in your own parenting style - probably coping mechanisms from childhood. The first half of this book could be a very difficult and upsetting read as you learn more about the effects of your own upbringing and consider the ripple effects on your own children.

Be very kind to yourself, take frequent breaks to reflect on the fact that you are working to break the cycle.

I wish the author had expressed more compassion in places. She essentially puts forward the view that narcissistic parents are irredeemable and will almost always refuse to change. I think that is too black and white. There is always hope - you are that hope. You can do better.

Brace yourself!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.