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The Scapegoat is highly independent Every workplace develops its own culture and dynamics, and sometimes these mirror patterns we first learnt in our families of origin. One of the most recognisable yet misunderstood roles that can emerge in professional settings is that of the "scapegoat." Often seen as the person who challenges the status quo or seems to attract blame, this colleague's behaviour may appear disruptive, but it often serves a deeper function within the team dy

Alone and lonely at work How the Lost Child Pattern Shows Up at Work Understanding the lost child role is essential if you grew up in a family affected by dependence, particularly when recognizing how these patterns follow you into your professional life. The lost child often seeks safety in solitude, finding comfort in being alone because it feels protective. This self-imposed isolation shields you from harm, yet also leads to deep loneliness. In family systems marked by cha

To the Rescue! In families affected by substance or process dependence, one child often assumes the role of the Hero. Driven by an intense need for approval, this person becomes the responsible one, the achiever, the one who brings pride to the family. On the surface, they appear to have everything under control. They're the employee who excels, the colleague with clear goals, the professional who "made it". Yet beneath this competent exterior lies a complex emotional landsca

The Mascot is always clowning around The Mascot at Work Have you ever noticed that you're the one who lightens the mood during tense meetings? Do you find yourself using humour as your go-to way of connecting with colleagues and diffusing workplace conflict? You may have brought what's known as the Mascot (sometimes called Placater) role into your professional life. Recently, I worked with someone who shared how they instinctively cracked jokes during a difficult performance

Family Roles: Survival or Transformation? Families are complex ecosystems where each member plays a unique part. In healthy families, children naturally explore different roles, sometimes the comedian, other times the caregiver. They're free to experiment, to grow, to change. But in families where parents or caregivers struggle with substance or process dependencies, something fundamental shifts. When Survival Becomes a Role Children in families affected by dependency don't c