Roles in Dysfunctional

Families
In all family systems, individuals take on roles. However, unlike healthy families
where roles may change as people grow, in unhealthy systems, individuals are stuck
in their roles. Sometimes attempts to change roles may be met with resistance even
when the change is positive, like when an addict tries to get clean.
Discover the most common roles in dysfunctional families.

+ The Enabler/Caretaker
The enabler takes on the problems and responsibilities
of the problem parent and is seen in families where one
parent has a significant mental health problem or addiction.
The enabler works to ensure that the parent never faces
consequences, which typically does not lead to change
or improvement.

+ The Hero/Golden Child

The hero works hard to make the family look normal and acts as
a confidante to one of the parents. They feel the need to always
be strong and brave. Their compulsive need to succeed and
perfectionism tend toward stress-related illness and overwork
as well as anxiety from trying to live up to high expectations.

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 + The Scapegoat
The Scapegoat often comes to therapy as the identified
patient and is considered the troublemaker or the rebel.
They are perceived as defiant, angry and vocal about family
dynamics. In reality, this role is often the most candid about
the family situation where others may be trying to cover up
the dysfunction. Oftentimes, Scapegoats are emotionally
abused and tend toward shallow relationships. They may
also seek (negative) attention.

+ The Lost Child

The lost child is sometimes known as the quiet one or the
dreamer. Their coping method is to withdraw to avoid family
interactions to stay away from the chaos. Because they tend to
be shy and lonely, they often lack good communication skills,
struggle with intimacy, and deny that they have strong feelings
or that they get upset.

+ The Family Mascot

The mascot may also be called the clown. They use humor to
entertain, interrupt tension, and make others feel better,
however, this does not repair damage. Instead, it deflects from
what is going on temporarily. Often as these individuals grow
up, they become involved with others in need of ‘saving’ and try
to overcome their guilt and low self-worth by pleasing people.

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