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The complex dynamic of role reversal within a family can create profound emotional and psychological challenges. When a child feels forced into a parental role, a phenomenon known as parentification occurs. This structural shift can deeply impact individual identity, mental health, and family boundaries. Understanding Parentification
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It can feel deeply uncomfortable to have a parent treat you with the intimacy or dependency reserved for a spouse.
A therapist can help you process the grief of this role confusion. This public link is valid for 7 days
If Dad is looking for "Mom" (you) constantly while you are on a Zoom call, use low-tech solutions.
Ensure other family members understand this is a symptom of cognitive decline, not a "game" he is playing. Can’t copy the link right now
if necessary, creating space by limiting time spent in the caregiving environment.
For many couples, this means letting go of the traditional breadwinner-homemaker model and moving toward a more fluid, team-based approach. It means the parent who is better at managing school communications takes that on, regardless of gender. It means the parent who has more flexible work hours handles the sick days. It means "mom work" and "dad work" become meaningless categories, replaced by simply "our work."
As for Molly Jane's mom, she's also been playing along and has even started to join in on the fun. "I just go along with it and pretend I'm her," she joked. "It's become a fun little game for us."