I decided to go into forensics because since I was a child, I had a natural gift of dealing with troubled individuals so as to keep myself safe. I grew up in Colombia during the 90s, a time when the Constitution of 1991 was established, and a time when violence, narco-cartels, the paramilitary, satanic sects, death squads, and fresh magnicides took place. Indeed, utter political chaos was the status quo. Yes, Colombia was in deep crisis during this decade, and psychological deviations were all over the place. What seemed normal everywhere, was also a hyper-manifestation, and hypernormalisation of what now is classified as abnormal.
Among the many ills of Colombia, were sexual deviations. And that’s how my ‘career’ into forensic psychoanalysis began when I was only six years old.
Hello, my dear readers! Today I am delighted to present to you an interview with Latina-European, Colombia-Italian Antonella Orlando, a 14 years old girl with a voice and a purpose. I asked her a series of questions on topics related to the social sciences. These were her responses:
Advertisements
How does a father help in the emotional development of his daughter?
A father plays an essential role in his daughter’s emotional development. From the earliest years of life, his loving and constant presence gives her security, love, and confidence. When a father validates his daughter’s emotions, listens without judgement, and supports her at every stage, she learns to recognise and express her feelings freely and without fear.
Furthermore, a father who guides with love and firmness helps his daughter build healthy self-esteem, feel valuable, and set appropriate boundaries. His way of relating to her becomes the primary model of how human relationships should be: with respect, tenderness, honesty, and understanding.
He also teaches her to manage frustration, face problems calmly, and believe in herself even in difficult times. His emotional support accompanies her through important decisions, moments of confusion, and every small step toward independence.
What are the consequences of a father who is absent in difficult moments of his daughter’s life?
When a father is absent during his daughter’s difficult times, she may experience feelings of abandonment, loneliness, and she might feel misunderstood. This emotional absence can cause deep wounds that affect her self-esteem, security, and confidence. The lack of paternal support during difficult times can also lead to difficulties managing emotions, making decisions, or trusting others.
Some daughters may develop emotional dependency or, reversely, become distrustful and excessively independent. In certain cases, the absence of a paternal figure can also be reflected in future emotional relationships, where the pattern of abandonment or lack of affection is recreated. The pain of not feeling supported by such an important figure can leave scars that influence a woman’s personal, emotional, and social life.
How should a father support his daughter?
A father should support his daughter consistently, respectfully, and lovingly. This means being present in her life, not only physically but also emotionally: listening without judgement, validating her feelings, and supporting her through both her successes and her setbacks.
The father must show genuine interest in his daughter’s thoughts and experiences, create a trusting environment where she can speak without fear, and be a figure with whom she feels safe.
He should also educate her with love, guide her with patience, correct her without hurting her, and always remember that his example has a profound impact.
A supportive and respectful father teaches his daughter to love and value herself, and face life with resilience. His role is not only to protect, but also to encourage and help her discover who she is and how valuable she is.
Why do some young girls feel that they cannot disclose everything to their parents?
Many young women feel they can’t tell everything to their parents because they fear being judged, scolded, or misunderstood. Sometimes adults minimise what their daughters feel, calling it an exaggeration or drama, and this creates an emotional barrier. Other times, parents react with anger or without really listening, which causes their daughters to bottle up their problems for fear of the reaction.
It may also be that there isn’t a safe space for open communication at home, or that a relationship of trust (rapport) hasn’t been built. When parents don’t listen attentively, don’t validate emotions, or/and don’t respect silence; daughters learn to keep quiet. That’s why it’s so important for adults to listen without interrupting, ask questions with empathy, and approach them from a place of love, not control.
What are the signs displayed nowadays by teens who are experiencing depression?
Today’s young people show several signs of depression, although they may not always be easy to notice. Some isolate themselves from friends or family, stop enjoying things they used to enjoy, or experience sudden mood swings. They may also sleep too much or too little, overeat or skip eating, and show disinterest in their studies or responsibilities.
Other signs include constant irritability, unexplained tiredness, or expressions of feeling worthless or empty. In more severe cases, they may talk about not wanting to continue living, engage in self-harm, or have recurring negative thoughts.
It is essential that these signs be taken seriously and that they are offered support, understanding, and professional help when necessary.
What will the 2035 general society think like? What will be understood then, that we don’t already know today?
By 2035, society could have a more empathetic and open view of issues that still generate resistance or fear today, such as mental health, identity diversity, climate change, or the impact of technology on human emotions. It’s likely that by then we’ll better understand how to take care of our minds, how to create healthy relationships from a young age, and how to prevent emotional isolation.
Perhaps there will be more emotional education in schools, and well-being will be valued more than quick success. We might also have greater knowledge about how social media affects our self-esteem and how artificial intelligence influences our way of thinking. What is ignored or seen as taboo today could be treated naturally and respectfully in 2035, thanks to social advances and the active voices of today’s young people.
Do you believe that today’s youth will be able to combat climate change in the future?
Yes, today’s young people have a fundamental role to play in the fight against climate change. They are a more aware, informed, and committed generation. Through education, activism, technology, and political participation, they can generate creative solutions and demand change from governments and businesses.
Many young people are already leading environmental movements, promoting recycling, responsible consumption, and the use of clean energy. They also have access to networks and tools that allow them to mobilise and educate others.
Although climate change is a global problem that requires everyone’s collaboration, young people have the power to change mindsets and act now to protect the future of the planet.
What and how could today’s youth teach their parents?
Today’s young people can teach their parents many things, especially on topics such as respect for diversity, mental health, the use of technology, and the importance of expressing emotions. At times, parents grew up in a time when these issues weren’t openly discussed, and young people, with their way of seeing the world, can help them open up and learn.
The youth can do this with patience, respect, and for example: by showing their thoughts through actions, sharing information, engaging in non-confrontational dialogue, and listening.
Teaching isn’t about imposing, but about sharing from the heart. When parents see their children teaching them with love, they are more willing to learn and change. This dual learning relationship strengthens the family and allows them to grow together.
What topics do you believe are the most difficult for adults to comprehend nowadays?
Many adults fail to understand the emotional world of young people. They sometimes believe that anxiety, depression, or insecurity are simple whims or lack of character, when in reality they are serious issues that need attention.
They also struggle to understand the importance of social media in today’s life, or the new forms of expression and identity that are now part of the new youth language. Sometimes, they judge without listening or impose without dialogue.
Another area where they often fail is: respecting young people’s boundaries and privacy.
To improve this understanding, it is key for adults to open themselves to dialogue, listen with empathy, and stay up-to-date on the realities facing the new generations.
What does it mean to respect the youth, in your opinion?
Respecting young people means recognising their value, listening to their ideas without underestimating them, and allowing them to have a voice on issues that affect them. It means to stop treating them as if they “know nothing” and starting to see them as people in development, with rights, emotions, and important thoughts.
It also means not mocking their tastes, not minimising their problems, or comparing them with past generations. Respecting young people means trusting their capacity to act, teaching them without imposing, and accompanying them in their growth with love and patience. When adults respect young people, they feel valued and empowered to build a better world.
What role does today’s youth play in the development of human rights?
Young people play a key role in the development and defence of human rights. They are often the ones who speak out against injustice; defending equality, inclusion, and freedom of expression. Through their actions, protests, digital campaigns, and participation in social movements, they contribute to raising awareness of issues that are sometimes ignored by adults.
Furthermore, by being globally connected, they can learn from other cultures and struggles, strengthening their social awareness. Young people inspire change and are drivers of new ideas that break with past prejudices. They are agents of transformation who, with their energy, creativity, and sensitivity, build a more just society for all.
Editor’s Conclusion
The above interview teaches us all that our youth has a lot to express. They regularly experience the frustration of feeling misunderstood, dismissed, or emotionally abandoned.
They are human beings, with a mind of their own, and with sophisticated curricula which gives them an advantage when it comes to being up to date with important topics.
Furthermore, their brains are quicker, they are naturally adapting to new technologies, and are increasingly concerned about the realities our planet faces, such as climate change.
Parents should be actively involved in the life of their teenagers. They should aim for negotiation rather than imposition or punishment, as new findings in psychology indicate that positive reinforcement is superior to punishment when it comes to helping a young person change their maladaptive or challenging behaviours.
Empathy, patience, and a soft tone of voice should always be used when communicating, so no fear is triggered hormonally. Restrictions should be co-produced rather than enforced without giving the teenager a defence or a right to participate in decision-making.
Let’s all move forward by being better fathers, mothers, grandparents, aunts, and uncles when it comes to our youth. Never underestimate them, or their feelings.
Narcissism is a personality trait characterised by an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. While narcissism has long been thought to be primarily influenced by environmental factors such as upbringing and life experiences, recent research has shown that there may be a genetic component as well.
Advertisements
One of the most fascinating aspects of narcissism is its relationship to epigenetics. Epigenetics is the study of how changes in gene expression can occur without changes to the underlying DNA sequence. In other words, epigenetics helps us understand how our genes are turned on and off in response to environmental stimuli.
Recent studies have found that certain epigenetic modifications may play a role in the development of narcissistic traits. For example, one study published in the journalPersonality Disorders found that individuals with higher levels of narcissism had reduced levels of a specific epigenetic marker known as DNA methylation in a gene related to social behaviour. This suggests that changes in gene expression may contribute to the development of narcissistic traits.
Another study published in the journal Psychiatry Research found that individuals with narcissistic traits had altered expression of certain genes related to dopamine signalling, which is involved in reward processing and pleasure seeking behaviour. This suggests that changes in gene expression related to dopamine signalling may contribute to the sensation-seeking behaviors often seen in narcissistic individuals.
These findings highlight the complex interplay between genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors in the development of narcissism. While genetics may predispose individuals to certain personality traits, including narcissism, environmental factors such as upbringing and life experiences can also play a significant role in shaping behaviour.
Understanding the epigenetics of narcissism has important implications for treatment and intervention strategies. By targeting specific epigenetic markers or gene pathways associated with narcissistic traits, researchers may be able to develop more effective therapies for individuals with narcissistic personality disorder.
Overall, the study of epigenetics sheds light on the intricate mechanisms underlying narcissism and offers new avenues for research and treatment. By exploring the genetic and epigenetic influences on narcissistic traits, we can better understand the complex interplay between genetics and environment in shaping personality.
The manipulative narcissist is a dangerous individual who thrives on controlling and manipulating others for their own gain. These individuals display a range of toxic behaviours, such as gaslighting, guilt-tripping, and playing the victim, all in an effort to maintain power and control over those around them.
Advertisements
One of the key traits of a manipulative narcissist is their lack of empathy for others. They will use and exploit people without hesitation, all while convincing themselves and others that they are the victim in the situation. This lack of empathy allows them to manipulate people without feeling any guilt or remorse for their actions.
Gaslighting is another common tactic used by manipulative narcissists. They will twist the truth, deny reality, and make their victims doubt their own perceptions of reality. This can be incredibly damaging to the victim’s mental health, as they are constantly second-guessing themselves and their own judgements.
In addition to gaslighting, manipulative narcissists also excel at guilt-tripping their victims. They will use emotional manipulation to make their victims feel guilty for things that are not their fault, in an effort to control their behaviour and keep them under their thumb.
So, how can you protect yourself from a manipulative narcissist? The first step is to recognise the signs of manipulation and abuse. Trust your instincts and pay attention to how you feel when you are around this person. If you feel constantly drained, anxious, or on edge, it may be a sign that you are being manipulated.
It is also important to set boundaries with manipulative narcissists and stick to them. Do not let them guilt-trip you or control your behaviour. Surround yourself with supportive, understanding individuals who will help you recognise when you are being manipulated and help you break free from the toxic cycle.
In conclusion, dealing with a manipulative narcissist can be incredibly challenging and draining. It is important to recognise the signs of manipulation and abuse, set boundaries, and seek support from loved ones. Remember, you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and no one has the right to control or manipulate you. Stay strong and believe in yourself.
Denial is a common defence mechanism that many people use to cope with difficult situations or emotions. It involves refusing to accept the reality of a situation, either consciously or unconsciously, in order to avoid facing the discomfort or pain that it brings.
Advertisements
One of the ways in which denial works is by distorting reality. When we are in denial, we may convince ourselves that the situation is not as bad as it seems, or that it will somehow magically resolve itself without any effort on our part. This distortion of reality can provide temporary relief from the stress or anxiety that the situation is causing us, but it ultimately prevents us from taking the necessary steps to address the issue and move forward.
Denial can also work by blocking out or minimising our emotions. When we refuse to accept the reality of a situation, we may suppress or ignore our feelings about it in order to avoid the pain or discomfort that they bring. This can lead to emotional numbness, detachment, or even a sense of apathy towards the situation.
Another way in which denial works is by creating a false sense of control. By denying the reality of a situation, we may convince ourselves that we have power over it and can somehow make it go away simply by not acknowledging it. This false sense of control can provide a temporary sense of safety or security, but it ultimately prevents us from taking responsibility for our actions and making positive changes in our lives.
In order to overcome denial, it is important to recognise when we are engaging in this defence mechanism and to actively work towards facing the reality of the situation. This may involve seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist, as well as practising self-reflection and self-awareness. By acknowledging and accepting the reality of a situation, we can begin to take the necessary steps to address it and move towards healing and growth.
In conclusion, denial is a common defence mechanism that many people use to cope with difficult situations or emotions. By distorting reality, blocking out emotions, and creating a false sense of control, denial can provide temporary relief from the discomfort or pain that a situation brings. However, in order to truly move forward and heal, it is important to acknowledge and accept the reality of the situation and take proactive steps towards addressing it.
Narcissistic Supply, also known as a narcissist’s source of validation and admiration, is a crucial element in understanding the behaviour of individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). In simple terms, Narcissistic Supply is like fuel for a narcissist’s ego. It is the attention, admiration, adulation, and validation that a narcissist craves to maintain their inflated sense of self-worth.
Advertisements
Narcissists are driven by a deep-seated insecurity and a fragile core self. They use their charm, manipulation, and grandiose behaviours to feed their insatiable need for attention and adulation from others. Narcissistic Supply can come in various forms – it can be praise, compliments, gifts, loyalty, or even just the attention and admiration of others. The narcissist is always on the lookout for sources of Narcissistic Supply to boost their self-esteem and maintain their sense of superiority.
It’s important to recognise the signs of a narcissist seeking Narcissistic Supply and to set boundaries to protect oneself from being used and manipulated. It’s also crucial to seek help and support from a therapist or counsellor if you find yourself in a relationship with a narcissist, as their behaviour can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects on their victims.
In conclusion, understanding the concept of Narcissistic Supply is key to dealing with individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. By recognising their need for attention and admiration, we can set boundaries and protect ourselves from being used and manipulated by narcissists. Remember, you are not responsible for fulfilling a narcissist’s insatiable need for validation – prioritise your own well-being and seek support if needed.
Love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that has fascinated philosophers, poets, and psychologists throughout the ages. In particular, the Greek concept of Eros, which refers to passionate, romantic love, has been a subject of much contemplation and debate.
Advertisements
In modern psychology, attachment theory provides a framework for understanding the dynamics of love and relationships. Developed by psychologist John Bowlby in the 1950s, attachment theory posits that the bonds we form with our caregivers in early childhood shape our patterns of attachment and relationships throughout our lives.
According to attachment theory, there are four main attachment styles: secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant. People with a secure attachment style are able to form healthy, trusting relationships, while those with an anxious-preoccupied attachment style may be clingy and fearful of abandonment. Those with a dismissive-avoidant attachment style may avoid emotional intimacy, while those with a fearful-avoidant attachment style may vacillate between wanting closeness and pushing others away.
Eros, with its focus on passion and desire, can sometimes be at odds with attachment theory, which emphasises emotional intimacy and security. However, these two concepts are not necessarily mutually exclusive. In fact, an understanding of attachment theory can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of romantic love.
For example, individuals with a secure attachment style are more likely to have positive, fulfilling relationships based on trust and mutual respect. They are able to express their desires and emotions openly, without fear of rejection or abandonment. On the other hand, individuals with an anxious-preoccupied attachment style may struggle with feelings of insecurity and neediness in their relationships, while those with a dismissive-avoidant attachment style may have difficulty connecting emotionally with their partners.
By understanding our own attachment style and that of our partners, we can gain a deeper awareness of the dynamics at play in our relationships. This can help us navigate challenges and conflicts more effectively, ultimately leading to more satisfying and harmonious connections with our loved ones.
In conclusion, the interplay between Eros and attachment theory offers a rich and nuanced perspective on the dynamics of love. By exploring how these two concepts intersect and influence each other, we can deepen our understanding of what it means to truly connect with another person in a meaningful and enriching way. Love may be complex and sometimes fraught with challenges, but with awareness and insight, we can cultivate stronger and more fulfilling relationships that stand the test of time.
