Understand
Sometimes the first step is seeing the pattern.
Some experiences are difficult to name when you’re inside them.
Patterns in motion
Watch what happens between three people.
Two people, in conflict.
You may recognize this pattern.
Sometimes conflict between two people gets redirected through a third person. The third person can begin feeling responsible for carrying a conflict that isn’t theirs.
Read more about triangulation →Explore other patterns.
The library
A place to start making sense of what you may be experiencing.
- 01— In motion
Triangulation
When conflict pulls a third person into the middle.
- 02
Scapegoating
When one person repeatedly carries the blame for wider problems.
- 03
Favoritism
When care, attention, or rules feel unevenly distributed.
- 04
Parentification
When a child takes on responsibilities beyond their years.
- 05
Emotional neglect
When emotional needs are frequently unseen or unmet.
- 06
Humiliation
When criticism or embarrassment happens in front of others.
- 07
Manipulation
When pressure or persuasion leaves little room for your own choice.
- 08
Gaslighting
When repeated denial of events makes you doubt your own experience.
- 09
Controlling behavior
When someone repeatedly limits your choices or independence.
- 10
Boundary violations
When a clearly expressed limit is repeatedly not respected.
- 11
Emotional dependency
When emotional steadiness feels tied entirely to one relationship.
- 12
Bullying
When hurtful behavior is repeated and difficult to escape.
- 13
Exclusion
When being left out becomes a painful pattern.
- 14
Group pressure
When fitting in seems to depend on doing what others want.
- 15
Public humiliation
When embarrassment in front of others leaves a lasting mark.
These resources are educational and cannot tell you what is happening in your individual situation. If you feel unsafe or need urgent help, contact local emergency services or a qualified professional.