The shame enforcer. This is the internalized voice of an external parental figure that often presents as self-critical or judgmental thoughts towards oneself. It is generally developed from negative childhood experiences with parents or caregivers. The critical parent is a projection of external experiences (parental figures, external conversations, teachers, bosses, coaches, ministers etc) these are learned criticisms that we internalize and use on ourselves.

Example Usage

Whenever John makes a mistake, he hears his critical parent telling him he's not good enough, a voice he's working to quiet in his recovery journey.