parentification

Parentification occurs when a child takes on roles and responsibilities typically handled by a parent, such as caregiving, decision-making, or emotional support. This shift happens because of family circumstances, like illness or absence of the parent, leading the child to prioritize family needs over their own development. While it may briefly help the family, persistent parentification can impact the child's emotional well-being, independence, and sense of boundaries, often resulting in feelings of overwhelm, loss of childhood, or difficulties in forming healthy relationships later in life.