Carl Rogers’ phenomenological theory of personality and behaviour forms the core of his person-centred approach, viewing the individual’s subjective “phenomenal field”, as the primary determinant of behaviour and growth.
This article looks into the basic family relationship, as driven by our genetic need for connection, support, nurturing and protection. We then propose a typical dysfunctional scenario, based on parents that are avoidant of that connection. It proposes that this scenario will result in children that will include a scapegoat, who may well develop C-PTSD based Stockholm Syndrome, before they are old enough to verbalise their long-term abuse. It also introduces a new term – Puppy-dog Syndrome, to describe one of the observable behaviours of children that have had this childhood.