Scapegoat
Scapegoat
A scapegoat is the person in a family or group who gets blamed for everyone else's problems. The group focuses all its tension and conflict onto this one individual.
Details
The scapegoat role occurs when a family or group's unresolved problems and conflicts are projected onto one member, who is then treated as though they are the cause of all the difficulties. In family therapy, this person is also called the 'identified patient.'
Someone placed in the scapegoat role often experiences low self-esteem, shame, and anger. In reality, the problem usually lies in the dynamics of the entire family system, not in that one person.
To break free from the scapegoat role, an approach that addresses the whole family system is necessary. Mindy can help you explore how these patterns developed and support you in finding a healthier path forward.
💡 Real-Life Example
A family's conflict and anxiety gets blamed on one child's 'problem behavior,' and only that child is criticized and held responsible, while the underlying family tensions go unaddressed.
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.