Story perspectives

Overcoming Childhood Disappointment: Embracing Self-Compassion in Friendships

3/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

A 38-year-old woman reflects that she expects disappointment from friends due to childhood experiences of being let down.
She often plays the victim and downplays invitations to avoid potential rejection.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapist Susanna Abse suggests this mindset may serve as a defense mechanism against disappointment.
Abse encourages self-compassion and says these feelings may be learned behaviors.
The article emphasizes confidence and emotional safety in relationships.

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Story summary

A 38-year-old woman reflects that she expects disappointment from friends due to childhood experiences of being let down.
She often plays the victim and downplays invitations to avoid potential rejection.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapist Susanna Abse suggests this mindset may serve as a defense mechanism against disappointment.
Abse encourages self-compassion and says these feelings may be learned behaviors.
The article emphasizes confidence and emotional safety in relationships.