Adult Children of Emotionally Neglectful Parents (ACENP)

Adult Children of Emotionally Neglectful Parents (ACENP) are individuals who grew up in environments where their emotional needs—such as acknowledgment, validation, and affection—were consistently overlooked or ignored by their parents. As a result, they may experience challenges like difficulty identifying or expressing feelings, low self-esteem, or struggling with intimacy and relationships. This neglect isn’t usually accompanied by overt abuse but can leave lasting emotional scars, leading to a sense of emptiness or disconnection. Understanding this pattern can help individuals work through unresolved issues and develop healthier emotional awareness and connections in adulthood.