Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers by Stephanie M. Kriesberg Summary

Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers by Dr. Stephanie M. Kriesberg is a practical guide for women healing from maternal narcissism. It combines evidence-based strategies—like CBT, ACT, and hypnotherapy—to help readers quiet self-critical thoughts, set boundaries, and reclaim autonomy. Through relatable stories, journal prompts, and exercises, the book addresses shame, empathy deficits, and the long-term effects of growing up with emotionally neglectful or manipulative mothers.

This book is for adult daughters of narcissistic mothers struggling with self-doubt, anxiety, or relationship challenges. It’s also valuable for therapists seeking tools to support clients and anyone recovering from emotional invalidation. Readers must be ready to engage with reflective exercises to unpack ingrained coping mechanisms and rebuild self-trust.

Yes, especially for those beginning their healing journey. Reviewers praise its actionable exercises, compassionate tone, and relatable anecdotes. However, its heavy focus on journaling may feel repetitive in audiobook format. The book is not a “complete fix” but provides foundational strategies for setting boundaries and reframing self-perception.

Dr. Kriesberg identifies two primary types:

• Grandiose narcissists: Dominating, self-important, and openly critical.
• Vulnerable narcissists: Covertly manipulative, envious, and emotionally needy.

Both types prioritize their own needs, leaving daughters feeling responsible for their mother’s emotions and doubting their self-worth.

Shame is framed as a learned response to constant criticism and unrealistic expectations. The book teaches readers to separate this “inherited” shame from their true identity using self-compassion exercises, cognitive reframing, and validation of past experiences. Strategies focus on rebuilding self-worth eroded by maternal invalidation.

It provides step-by-step techniques to identify and enforce boundaries, even when met with resistance. Methods include scripting assertive communication, managing guilt, and prioritizing self-care. The author emphasizes that boundary-setting is a skill developed through practice, particularly for those raised to believe their needs were secondary.

Using ACT and CBT principles, readers learn to challenge negative self-talk rooted in maternal criticism. Exercises include identifying the voice’s origin, replacing distortions with factual statements, and aligning actions with personal values rather than seeking approval. Quotes like “The safest place to keep your thoughts was inside your own mind” underscore the journey toward self-trust.

Yes. It tackles enduring issues like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and emotional numbness. By linking these behaviors to childhood survival mechanisms, the book offers frameworks to break cycles of self-sabotage and build healthier relationships. Case studies illustrate how daughters often repeat dynamics with partners or employers until consciously addressed.

Both explore maternal narcissism, but Kriesberg’s guide is more interactive, with exercises and journal prompts. McBride’s work focuses broader cultural patterns, while Adult Daughters emphasizes skill-building for immediate emotional challenges. The books complement each other for holistic healing.

Some may find the focus on self-guided work insufficient for severe trauma, necessitating therapy alongside reading. The emotional heaviness of topics like shame or enmeshment can also feel overwhelming. However, the book acknowledges these challenges and encourages pacing the exercises.

Drawing on 25+ years in clinical psychology, Kriesberg blends psychodynamic, CBT, and hypnotherapy techniques. Her emphasis on experiential learning mirrors therapies proven effective for anxiety and complex PTSD, offering a multidimensional toolkit tailored to daughters’ unique struggles.

As mental health awareness grows, more women seek resources to address intergenerational trauma. The book’s focus on agency and boundaries aligns with broader cultural shifts toward self-advocacy. Its strategies are adaptable to modern challenges like workplace gaslighting or social media-driven perfectionism.