Family scapegoat, prized, needed and envied | Diane Collins | TEDxFederalHill

[@whygohome172]

The scapegoat is the one who stands the greatest chance of being mentally healthy!

[@anaiis_salles]

Yes, because they can see, hear, feel and will speak the truth; they don't agree to play the 'unspeakable' game.

[@LucyClover]

I love this. Thank you

[@AlbumDumblebee]

@@anaiis_salles It led me to Jesus, He received me with so much love, while I was in the wilderness and I thank Him for being my best friend.

[@lorenald]

I’m so scared to face what’s on the other side of healing is it always being trigger or reliving the pain I wish this pain was never inflicted!!

[@AlbumDumblebee]

@@lorenald No scapegoat wishes this role upon themselves. A family with healthy relationships among themselves does not need a scapegoat. EMBRACE FORGIVENESS AS YOUR DIVINE GIFT AND SUPERPOWER FROM GOD! I became emotionally stronger because of it, without even knowing. Feel free to reach out for any kind of support.

[@Rosakru]

17:54 "So I hope this helps someone". A scapegoat speaking out, speaking freely, will always help 'someone'. A scapegoat has a voice that needs to be heard.

[@womanlifefreedomworldwide]

Ik vond dat de mooiste zin omdat ze waarschijnlijk heel véél mensen helpt!

[@Feetnt]

YES!!!!

[@TinaBUTCHER-ph1ph]

I comment on these to show others they are not alone but these vids are triggering

[@Cherrylipgloss2025]

​@@TinaBUTCHER-ph1phthese videos are facts!! If you can't handle it stay off of KZbin!

[@marcydrake9159]

@@TinaBUTCHER-ph1phTina, thank you so much for reaching out to help others despite your own pain. I appreciate the effort it takes to do that. ❤🙏💪💜

[@alloysa]

Thank you Diane for telling your story and mine and so many others. We have been used, blamed, purposely ganged up on, left out and confused for your entire life unless like you and I, stop, realize and process what actually happened to you! I now have separated, re-positioned and am healing my entire life. With the right education, support and divine power will overcome🙏🏽

[@cueyourmom9049]

Praying for all scapegoats worldwide.

[@EnlightenedGoldenBeauty]

Thank you ❤

[@lovesings2us]

Beautiful! I will too.

[@quantumnature514]

❤

[@marciabueno5093]

When she says “families help each other? Is this for real?” Hits home

[@whipwalk]

I usually laugh. It can't be real. I mean, who does that? Support each other?? I call bs.

[@FatNebraskaMom]

Right. I didn't even realize how bad it was until I was a teenager.

[@Cherrylipgloss2025]

​@@whipwalkyou know exactly what she said and it's not what you're trying to make it sound because it's not support in a good way it's protection for their abusers

[@Cherrylipgloss2025]

Misogynistic families are narcissistic families!!

[@johenderson3742]

I too thought families like that were made up for tv. They say you can't miss what you never had but I always wonder how diffetent my life would have been with a touch of belonging added.

[@jhizall6420]

The scapegoat is usually the one with compassion and empathy for others

[@OptimisticMaya]

The generational trauma that gets passed down is insane. In my 4th decade and I now realise that I was the Scspegoat all along and the familial narcissism is exactly what has happened on my mother’s side of the family and explains A LOT about her behaviour towards me. I refuse to pass this toxicity down to my own child. We are supposed to pass down wealth and wisdom. NOT trauma, shame and guilt.

[@amerikanculture4583]

I noticed at 36. My mother had me outside of her marriage. I became the answer for every problem.

[@OptimisticMaya]

@@amerikanculture4583 It’s projection. They like to shift the shame and blame of what they have done in their own lives, on to us. Rather than accept accountability for their own actions, they want us, their scapegoat, to carry the shame on their behalf. According to my narc mother, my father made my her get rid of a baby that he believed she conceived outside of the marriage and was not his. She never told me whether it was in fact true that that baby was not his - typical narc - only tells others half-truths. Nevertheless, if the story is true, then I do not condone what my father made her do. Then they conceived and had me and for a while I was my father’s golden child. I think my mother has covertly hated me ever since .. and for events which took place before I was even born. Stay strong. Our narcissistic parents’ burdens are not ours to bear.

[@sharonanderson4132]

Generational trauma is real. I've learned and still learning how to let it go.....it's not worth it. Don't let this type of trauma rob you from living life.

[@690169016901]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@TinaBUTCHER-ph1ph]

My narc mother is the same as her brother and their father, it's generational, their scapegoat brother managed to escape without trace. Good on him

[@filc8004]

Family scapegoat here. Thank you for this.

[@Godlikegio]

The softness of her voice and her reserved body language and cadence is so loud to me. As somebody who also has had to hold back, I see myself in her.

[@Faith_Chi]

Me too. It's gets seen as weakness or extreme shyness but it's anything but.

[@elisabeth2959]

Ditto 😊

[@j.k.6089]

❤

[@marcydrake9159]

@@Faith_Chicorrect. It’s real strength! 💪 not that fake stuff that narcs put out.

[@angelsavita524]

Same. Sending love to you. ❤

[@kathartickatalyst]

The pain and the scars never go away, but I have come to see myself not as the scapegoat but as the escapegoat. I am the only one who was freed from the toxic tribe and was able to go far beyond it.

[@fastinbulvis2223]

The story does not involve a "priest" or "family" as she says at the start of her talk. The story comes from The Torah. "In the book of Leviticus the scapegoat was an actual goat upon which were conferred the collective sins of the entire Jewish people." Just enter "scapegoat." It's the first entry of a Google search.

[@connollybrid1984]

@@kathartickatalyst love the escapegoat!

[@Beautiful_Days9249]

escapegoat....yes thank you.

[@sunnyadams5842]

Yup- I've been the EscapeGoat. for awhile now. 😂😢😢 I heard 'Sacrificial Lam', the other day and had to admit- that might be more like it in my instance! How about you???

[@LitHouseTieDye]

Same. I'll never regret leaving, but it still hurts everyday.

[@mday3821]

I was my mother's scapegoat. The abuse I suffered was unimaginable. I would give this a thousand likes. You can tell this lady has been through it. God bless her heart. Thank you for talking about this. We will no longer be silent!

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

I agree 💯 ❤️‍🩹❤️🌱🌳

[@ankaretharmer3362]

I agree totally, we will no longer be silent.

[@elisabeth2959]

Hugs 🫂 🤗

[@KingdomKeys4U]

@@mday3821 🫂keep healing 😇

[@reginapolo3357]

I can feel her pain

[@pleasepleasethebees]

From scapegoat to GOAT! So proud of this woman and all my fellow scapegoats.

[@vuyissecretgarden]

🐐 🤍

[@Faith_Chi]

💜

[@angelsavita524]

If only we could all be in a room together. ❤love and understanding , would be like medicine to my soul

[@FoxyDoll78]

❤❤

[@TinaBUTCHER-ph1ph]

👋

[@tahnihandal9328]

Scapegoats are the chosen ones. They develop bright light as a result of the darkness they must go through. They are the teachers, healers and spiritual guides in our world. Thank goodness for the scapegoats. They know what it feels like to be persecuted. It prepares them for the difficult work ahead.

[@johenderson3742]

"Persecuted" is a very accurate description.

[@ursaamajorr]

❤❤❤

[@rustywoodpecker8191]

Well said

[@lindathomas2350]

Thank you for those kind words for me and all other scapegoats!

[@HeiressFayard]

'It prepares them for the work ahead' sent shivers through me! I am about to kick up with my gifts and talents: healing and spirit mediumship. Main way my mom and sister mock me- 'She's crazy! She talks to ghosts! She's a witch!' They were plain terrified of my gifts, but when stuff starts getting weird my mom will ask me to do a cleansing on her house.. smh!!!

[@connollybrid1984]

You have just described my family! I thought that when my mother died , the abuse would cease. It didn't ...... silly me. At 50 , I've finally had the courage to walk away. It's been 12 months. One of my sisters keep on trying to bait me back in.....but it's too late. Thank you so much for this video.

[@dnk4559]

I thought the same too when my narcissistic father passed. It got worse!

[@IMHip2]

When I was 50 my mother died and my older sister took over her role of head narcissist. I went no contact . I was done. Best decision I’ve ever made. Keep your distance because it only gets better. I’ve had time to heal but it has been painful. I’m learning how to feel who I am for the first time in my life. You have made a hard but brave decision for yourself ❤ sending you power!

[@dnk4559]

@Michelle-kw2sp exactly the same in my family!

[@GodBlessUsEveryone-yg8vf]

💯 I've been sayin' it got WORSE after parents passed. Especially Mom!

[@GodBlessUsEveryone-yg8vf]

​@@IMHip2Thanks for sharing your experience here. I see the parallel with one of my siblings after our Mom passed away.

[@survivingamericaasamillennial]

This helped me tremendously. I had a beautiful and painful Christmas, and was feeling a bit lost. Wondering maybe I am the problem. Thanks for being brave enough to share your story. It’s beautifully done. May you find peace and happiness, fellow scapegoat.

[@connollybrid1984]

You are not on your own. Find comfort in friends. We choose our friends, not our family. Take care of yourself. You deserve to be happy. No child deserves this abuse.

[@beachbliss9366]

I went no contact with the ringleader, my mother. She then triangulated everyone against me including overseas relatives who I hadn’t heard from in years, my acupuncturist and family doctor to try to hoover me back to her. I had to cut off all her enablers including my father who was being the worst flying monkey (even though she treats him like dirt, he still defends her). My mother is 82 and frail but her mouth is caustic and lethal. Her mind is astute and sharp… and destructive, envious, sabotaging etc. Now I’m again the scapegoat for ‘making her suffer’ apparently, because I’ve gone no contact with her and everyone connected to her. I’m about to move to another state with my daughter to add distance. So much energy enlisted by my mother and her flying monkeys to create as much trouble as possible. I can only thank God that I’m secure within myself and don’t accept any blame from them. To others in this situation, be strong, prioritise yourself, your health and concentrate on people who love you, your animals and your hobbies. Thanks for this talk and blessings to you madam ☀️

[@metanoian965]

then your mother is a Narcissist. Self preservation, if at all possible, is 100% no contact.

[@stingray0033]

Can definitely relate. The triangulation is so brutal bc though you know what is happening the triangulated oftentimes do not but there's no point in trying to explain yourself. Also the flying monkeys- it all makes you feel victimized again and again. Good luck to you and your daughter.

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

82- she could like quite a few years yet- unchanged and her advancing years a social narrative for guilting those who walk away. Well done you.

[@vanessar2165]

I can also relate, a new one I was recently blamed for was my younger siblings passing away. I know that deep down inside she knows why my brother passed. ( influences of drugs in the home, lies, betrayal, my brother and I grew up w that) , after my brother passed, I tried being there for her, I even stayed over for the holidays at both parents house w my daughter. I went back home w a severe chemical burn 🔥 on my face and noticed how my facial products were burning my skin severely just to the touch of applying it to my face. I had severe dermatitis for about a whole year. This was really the last straw for me. Also she went crazy when I tried reaching out to my dad’s side of the family. I noticed deep rooted insecurity in her bc of me. I confronted her a couple times about the way she projects me online and to family members. ( her projection of me is ; I ruined her life, even though she chose to be and have children w a man addicted to drugs , even though all the struggles in her own life was a result of her choices) - her answer is everything is my fault 🤦🏽‍♀️, including my brothers passing. But God showed His face to them at the wake and at the funeral. My mother’s shame was seen by those there and by our Lord and Savior. This helped me to understand that judgement is real and that God sees everything. I lost my little brother, my other half. At first I was angry and questioning God. But my God understood me and forgave my anger. I forgave my parents. I left them at the feet of Jesus. I’ve limited contact with them. Even though my mother still thinks she can control me and still stalks me on socials and adds my high school friends to intimidate. I decided that soon I might also move to another state, if God willing.

[@elisabeth2959]

Stay strong.....keep that distance...your safe the father away the better 🙏

[@gg.6633]

I declare 2025 is the year scapegoats rise up and take our power back and be successful from now until ever more!!!

[@loridean.5986]

You are so right! God bless each and everyone of us baby!!!😜

[@NoraBerg-mt4md]

Thats the feeling I had today. In some way it feels like we are on the rise and the lies and abuse are called out🔥

[@gg.6633]

@@NoraBerg-mt4md Yes, I feel like part of what we’re seeing with the instability in the world right now is that narcissists in families and in very high places (government, medical industry etc etc) are being exposed and forced into narcissistic collapse. This is happening on a global level. Scapegoats are breaking free worldwide.

[@gg.6633]

@@NoraBerg-mt4md Yes, I feel like part of what we’re seeing with the instability in the world right now is that narcissists in families and in very high places (government, medical industry etc etc) are being exposed and forced into narcissistic collapse. This is happening on a global level. Scapegoats are breaking free worldwide.

[@carja09]

Amen, I'm with you. 😄

[@joygernautm6641]

I was this person in my family. I was also the truth teller in the family, which sent me up to be the scapegoat. I first realized it when I was seven years old.

[@americafirst1282]

Same here!

[@ozzymollyful]

I’m the scape goat in my family. I have been ousted for standing up against a family member’s abuse. It took me a long time but I’m happy that I don’t have their toxicity in my life

[@sherrilyn361]

"It's hard to get yourself back… and ... "betrayal syndrome" really hit home. Those are huge.

[@MsGabiele]

Yes, it is a terrible position to be in. Poisons an innocent life. And nobody sees it or believes it, as everyone of the family seems so nice and loving to the outside. Thank you for your brave story and support!

[@phyllis9750]

I didn't realize I was the goat. I fought them ALL off even as a child , just as a course of being youngest, with a happy f you.

[@ParDiss-e4i]

They do see it, but pretend not to see it for their own benefit, they are a part of it as well you just don't know it. Opportunists abound in life you'll find. But generally you have to avoid the mood swings it's all as that's clearly a severe mental health issue like paranoid personality disorder. You need to navigate it by setting boundaries don't stay there to take the abuse just say not now next time. And stay optimistic when they say they want to ruin your life don't react because of x y z...

[@bonitaclaireloveday-wp9rq]

​@@ParDiss-e4iThank you ❤Thank you ❤

[@EekZombies]

I was too.. it ruined me for many years.

[@BrandZ-xz8jt]

The one and only time my mother hugged me was in front of my friend's parents, so they would think she was a good normal mother.

[@sarahdjinn593]

Most people who give Ted talks have something worthwhile to share. But it’s so rare to hear someone speak with so much beautiful, hard won authenticity. Bless you 💜

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

Sarah I totally agree. I am so moved and so affirmed by Ms Diane Collins TED talk. I am very glad it appeared in my feed.

[@sarahdjinn593]

@@melliecrann-gaoth4789 🙂💚

[@j.k.6089]

❤❤❤❤

[@adellapie1589]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@LeahDyson-kq4bd]

She's talking pretty normal too like I was just sitting in the living room with her she's not doing some motivational type speaking I'm saying the way she talks is fitting for the topic

[@Jesusisking235]

63 years old successful man who learned last year that I was the family scapegoat. I’m kind, empathetic, and now see the deep jealousy my toxic family has towards me. Zero encouragement, inability to respect me, and my parents NEVER listened to me. I became the EXACT OPPOSITE towards our now raised kids💯

[@Angellightrose]

Proud of you! I'm glad you broke the cycle. P.S. I believe in Jesus too

[@60sGirl123]

Just went "home" for family funeral. I helped my mom with her computer. My sister was drunk and broke a dish. By the end of the day, I had broke the plate and my sister was the one who helped with the computer. Figures. My dad died and I can say now that there is no one left there for me, so that's good. I live 700 miles away, in a secure, gated community, VERY secure. I'm glad to have the resources. Not many are so lucky.

[@Ed-lian]

"You become invisible," Yes, that's the effect it has over time. The family talks over you. But never with you. They leave you out. All who participate in the family do the same. They then have a position inside that family. And they want to be somebody inside the family.

[@chilloften]

Never talks with you.

[@JulianotKaren]

Invisibility becomes invincibility 💪 The TRUTH sets us free and imprisons them..stay strong brothers and sisters 💜

[@Ed-lian]

@@JulianotKaren What a powerful message. Thank you, thank you. That is very encouraging.

[@JulianotKaren]

​@@Ed-lianKeep on keeping on 💛 the blessings that come with living in the light of truth are as hard to believe as our previous 'lives' were. Much love to you 💜

[@Hellohihowdyaloha]

Well said. They'd grab my boyfriend to join in.. my experience was so unbelievable. He'd join in to fit in.. rather than go against the grain. They taught any man who liked me, that I was not worthy (in frontof me and behind my back). How painful

[@Gsummer14]

The part about not ever being able to “clear your name” because of allll the lies that have gone out about you for years. This resonated so much with me

[@williamramos3350]

The one that is the escape goat has the biggest and most caring heart. That used to be me. Now I am the enemy to most of my relatives. I do not want anything to do with them. I am fed up.

[@lindaabbott514]

Hard role!

[@Never_Give_Up_88]

Yes 😊

[@rockstarofredondo]

I am done with them too. I have had enough.

[@fifilafleur5555]

I can certainly understand. Sometimes the manipulated extended family members (who believe all the lies) are so pathetic and foolish.

[@SaltofDayandLightofNight]

I have experienced this both by a narcissistic mother who tore the extended family apart and by my ex-husband who is another narcissist who has pitted all 3 of my children against me. My heart is broken beyond belief. I am healing and praying for God's strength.

[@shallahcat]

Thank you Diane. This provided so much comfort for me.

[@blueorion13]

you are so welcomed

[@marcydrake9159]

@@blueorion13really grateful that you were willing to be so vulnerable to help the rest of us scapegoats become escapegoats! 💜💜💜🙏🙏🙏

[@Delbert-go5km]

@@blueorion13 who can you get help from for this type of treatment?

[@rubbersidedown7041]

Thank you for talking about this. We really appreciate you being open about your story.

[@JN81224]

“You become invisible.” I felt that.

[@jahpuggie5]

YES! My mom hated when my sister and I got along-she loved stirring the pot and getting us mad at each other.

[@gracecase998]

Truth. My Dad to this day hates when us 4 kids talk and get his number of the pot stirring. We call him the wedge. He wedges us all apart with comparisons and telling each other different stories to spin us up against each other. I just pulled away from them all. Saved my peace.

[@robinqm]

Same

[@Ndewszn]

I figured this out for my friend. It’s the narc mom!

[@QuintonPierce-t2c]

Again..the occult and freemasonry...​@@gracecase998

[@QuintonPierce-t2c]

Was your family freemasons?

[@marthapond7070]

We need a me too movement for family scapegoat!! 💕

[@electricred91]

Oh yes I'm willing to join the band wagon 😊

[@christichristenson8187]

I’ve read so many of your comments and I feel like we are family. Wishing all my scapegoat brothers and sisters happiness and the feeling of freedom.

[@marcydrake9159]

Sending you a big hug, sis! 🫂💜

[@angelsavita524]

We are family. I’ll meet when are both stars dancing in the sky next to the moon on a very dark night.

[@mothereagle3624]

Your talk describes my family. I’m 67 years old and seeing family and myself clearly for the first time. I’ve backed away to save myself.

[@ClancyKeegan-f4v]

I waited til i was sixty to say enough. I wasted a lot of time. Please love yourselves all you scapegoats out there. Build your own life and family and be content with that ❤

[@FoxyDoll78]

❤❤

[@millionairemom]

3 years no contact. Daughter mentions nanny. Bang. The fear sets in again

[@TinaBUTCHER-ph1ph]

It's so difficult when they have hardwired you to be dependant on them

[@marelinem541]

@@TinaBUTCHER-ph1ph Yes, they pretend to be ‘normal’ by occasionally treating you like a person (but always in front of someone else they are trying to con), and very occasionally throwing you a small crumb (also witnessed by others), while making sure you know that without them, you wouldn’t even have that small crumb. They take everything, and demand that you be grateful for the one tenth of one percent that they return to you (and always in front of others).

[@msthang5366]

Forgive yourself!! It’s better later than never..

[@meredith2803]

Bless you sweetheart, I was the same in my family. It’s soul crushing, but you can heal from these awful family dynamics and create the life you deserve. Hope you have a better life now.

[@donnaf.9694]

You spoke for me -- I was the scapegoat in my family -- and it was like you were there with me. You have done great in breaking this dangerous cycle. It has helped me!

[@nathanharris1646]

No contact with my narcissistic parents for a year now. I am slowly starting to heal. 47 years of being their scapegoat before I realized. Ty for sharing your story it gives me strength.

[@teresafraser3049]

I'm the youngest of 5 children which I am the scapegoat. I finally walked away from my entire family 10 years ago...went silent....blocked them and never looked back. I am so grateful that I found the courage. Self love and respect to find the strength to achieve this. I am living a magical existence today because I chose to learn, grow and evolve through all the abuse I endured throughout my life instead of becoming resentful... The key to succeeding is to forgive yourself for allowing others to take advantage of you....stop being the disease to please person.

[@traceyroyer993]

Thank you 🎉

[@TheOriginalXultar]

I told my mom at 6 years old that our family is dysfunctional. From that point, to this day she has resorted to triangulation, name calling, insults, criticism, guilt shaming, lies, all the tactics to sow discontent within the family. She reminds me frequently that I told her we were dysfunctional. It seems I had looked behind the curtain where I wasn’t supposed to and she punishes me for it to this day.

[@lloyannehurd]

I was in a similar position when I was 7. It coloured my entire life darkly.

[@glendaanderson1119]

Same here! At 6 yrs of age, my Mother literally got in my face screaming at me that she should've never had me and all because I wanted to use the bathroom, had been outside in very hot Texas weather and couldn't reach the door to let myself in. When she screamed at me, scared me so much I started to cry and even wet myself. I sat in the corner of my bedroom for the rest of the day because I wet myself as punishment. Both my parents were narcissistic.

[@mayadove_7]

Hope you got away for good

[@kivaspeaks]

@@glendaanderson1119I'm so sorry we all loved you from that day...until we met you this day❤❤ heal and be free

[@sallybella8824]

Same. My mother is so threatened by being noticed for who she is. Returning to my home town it was validation for me to hear people say who she is. They all see it and steal clear.

[@TheRealLavenderLady]

This helped me immensely. I felt as if your were speaking about me personally. From the Jamaican aspect, skin tone aspect, jealousy aspect, you nailed it. When my narc passed, I felt many emotions but the main one was relief. No one who hasn't experienced it can truly understand the level of emotional damage and abuse these people dish out.

[@DreamBelieved]

She just told my story.

[@msfitbrown48]

This! Mines too.

[@NikkiaSings]

Plus 1 🙋🏾‍♀️

[@Wonderful9935]

Mine, too.

[@savvyroca]

Send a hug. You are loved❤

[@regalchic]

It's a wonderful feeling realizing you're not paranoid and that there are tons of people around the world whove been through what youve gone through. I cried at the end. I'm the scapegoat. I also realize that whats happening in my family is generational trauma and just like her I'm determined that this will NEVER be the experience of my children, when I have them.

[@ytyler59]

You are so right! OMG you are telling my story! Thank you for sharing! God Bless

[@voyagehome5810]

I would love to put on a pot of tea and sit and talk with her. What a beautiful soul.

[@angelsavita524]

I’d love some champagne with her

[@lms1068]

You're describing of most of my very splintered family here. Generations of it blended with alcohol addiction and hatred. It takes a very strong person to stand against it.

[@missmaxinethompson7407]

only my faith in EL Shaddai has enabled me to still be here on this earth and escaped from it IJN living in peace now

[@lindaabbott514]

It certsinly dues. They try to break you in 2.

[@marywestlund1774]

I was the scapegoat in a family of 8 children. They all knew if they did something wrong they could blame it on me. I'm 77 and still struggling. Thank you for your talk!

[@LorettaLong-pr3wg]

Thank you for sharing your story, Diane Collins. This information about the scapegoats in a severely dysfunctional family system is invaluable. It's a painful legacy. I'm the scapegoat daughter of a covert narcissistic mother. She has done so much damage in my life. I've finally gone no contact at age 64. 🕊

[@JulianotKaren]

💛Me too🙏

[@dorothypettijohn1037]

@@LorettaLong-pr3wg you give me hope! I'm 63 and dream of going no contact. Maybe I'll go thru with it next year!

[@sharonthompson672]

🖐️ Hello my unbiological siblings! 🥰

[@JulianotKaren]

​@@sharonthompson672hi🖐️love you...stay strong 💪 the broken are the more evolved 🙏💛

[@AmyWilliam25]

Thank you for sharing your story.

[@crystalcole888]

This is the bravest Ted talk that I've ever seen. I have also been the scapegoat in my family. And everything this lovely woman describes is 100% accurate. Educate yourself about narcissistic personality disorder, and narcissistic tendencies. Thank you so much for your words. And congratulations on developing into the warm, wonderful human being that you have become. As you well know, most people don't get there.

[@andreagascoigne6735]

Yes - she's brilliant, articulate, insightful and generous ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@elainecrawford6891]

Yes, a dear sweet soul. A lovely woman. 🙏❤

[@GirlsinnahoodMusic]

I believe it to be true I’m 25 finally accepting it for everything it has always been I asked myself for how long should I not speak up & continue feeling lower than a pebbel I’ve walked away there’s no point in going back it’ll never be what I need . Only something to settle for….

[@cherryred5835]

Yes, this is very helpful. We scapegoats need to unite to uplift each other!

[@carolinethomas6562]

Thank you so much, Diane, for standing there, a living embodiment of one who has been scapegoated, showing your wounds, and your brilliance. It was so valuable. Let's all remember: we are not what people say about us.

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

👏👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿👏🏼👏🏻

[@Sweetpea064]

I’m listening to her story and my heart is pounding. My narc father convinced my mother that I stole her jewelry when she was in the last few months of her life and sick with cancer. She asked me if I had taken them and I was shocked! I said no and she seemed fine and said maybe she misplaced it. A few days later she seemed mad at me. I kept asking what’s wrong but she would say nothing. Apparently he convinced her that I was lying. It hurt me to my core, like she doesn’t even know me even though we had always been close. Our relationship was never the same. She died without it ever feeling resolved. My family did not allow me to have any input into her memorial service and pretty much ignored me. That was several years ago but this video made it feel like it just happened. It still hurts.

[@mjmooney6530]

I feel this so so much. At age 5, I screamed at my mother that I was never getting married or having children because I would never treat my family the way she treated me. I still get mistaken for weak from time to time.

[@thokozilemtholo8410]

Being the scapegoat can make you hate the thought of having kids, because you don't want to treat them the way ur family treats you 😢

[@donnavickery9623]

Exception talk. So genuine. Straight from the heart .

[@taraarrington2285]

I think that too when I see family that helps and puts them through college and stuff like that. I can’t imagine what that’s like.

[@LoganPlimmer]

I always knew my family was crazy and knew I was going to disappear when I turned 18. Its been 22 peaceful quiet wonderful years, I have my own family now that is healthy and functional.

[@comfortsongcovers]

I am a scapegoat being alienated and punished for finally saying enough. The tactics used to diminish me and any person who loves me has been so eye opening. The envy, loathing and desire for my demise makes everything clearer. Thank you for speaking up. You are not a thief and neither am I.

[@QuintonPierce-t2c]

Do you have freemasonry in your family ? 👪

[@maurisagubler3230]

Such a proud role for me because I know the truth because of my authenticity and inner standing of who I am. I don’t need to stoop down and belittle others and create gossip to feel whole.

[@brendagregoryyuen4923]

Wow. Very powerful. I too am a scapegoat and I can relate to everything you are saying. How brave of you to come forward and share your truth! You are someone special.

[@denisemillar9146]

Wow, one of my favorite Ted talks. You are a courageous woman, Diane Collins!

[@altariel1442]

I’m the family scapegoat. I escaped overseas. It got much worse when my mother died, my sister and ex husband colluded to get my children to cut me off.

[@indiafinn11]

This happened to me too. My mother and sister colluded with my ex, to alienate me from my children.

[@michaeljohns8817]

Thank you !!!!!!!! It helps

[@bettehicks5639]

This is the best video on narcissism in families I’ve ever heard. Thank you 🎉

[@firebirdtelevision175]

My mother tried, but her mother broke her before I was born to her at 17. Being a scapegoat made me fierce. No lie (no matter how sugarcoated or twisted) will ever change truth. This woman is so beautifully tender. Bless her for standing up and telling the truth.

[@chrisf3875]

It does take a strong personality to overcome, I've come to the conclusion that you have to be stronger than them. In my case it truly took a divine will for that power. I'm glad for your victories. Peace

[@Starstorm111]

The scariest part is some of this families portray the perfect family image, even members of the family not aware of the dynamics. I was adopted by one of this families at 11. I came from a family of alcoholics and my mother was openly violent, cunning and ice heart person. She crushed my soul as a kid. I took me 15 years or so to discover the family that adopted me where kids in adults bodies. No surprise no one of them knew anything about me.. never asked me or invited me to speak about my childhood. For them I was like a puppet, a person that behaved very well, a talented kid that would stimulate them.. but no one of them knew ANYTHING about my emotions, emotional needs, sadness… I just had to fit into their nonsense dynamic. Nobody talks about feelings, nobody is honest, just playing the perfect happy ( actually passive aggressive no boundaries ) people. I’m glad I left at 18. I felt guilty for many years.. no more. I just feel sorry for them but I’m ok, I’m on my own.

[@lindafolk4598]

Wow, you were so wise to leave at 18

[@marcydrake9159]

I admire your intellect and strength. I hope you get a happy ending to your story. 💜🫂

[@baddie1shoe]

You know this is true for me too. My family of origin would never ask about my work or education. I am comparatively much more educated. They would never ask about anything I was doing. They would often take any chance they could to brag or talk about what they were up to. They were envious and had some hatred in their hearts. My worth to them was they could point me out to others and say ‘look at this daughter who is so successful!’ They seemed to only want bragging rights :(

[@sarah-chasityjohnson6498]

Im so proud of you for standing tall! The damage can be seen, and I pray you're continuously fighting your fears and doing childlike activities to do it with, so your smile can light continents by how big and strong it glows!! Fellow Phoenix, artist, severe ACES, domestic violence, & human trafficked scapegoat survivor here--to date on both sides of my alienated divide---shine my girl! Shine!

[@DJ_Dutchess]

🙏 🙏🙏

[@judithh.lawson4773]

Thank you. That was very helpful. Family dysfunction rolls down from generation to generation, like a fire in the woods, taking down everything in its' path until one person in one generation has the courage to turn and face the flames. That person brings peace to their ancestors and spares the children that follow. I hope you know YOU are that person.

[@wendywright5486]

I can't believe this only has this many views, thanks for speaking out the truth so many of us live

[@onwardsandupwards7397]

This was my family and me growing up. I understand now why everyone turned on me, even my own mother.

[@kelliebilinski]

I was the family scapegoat for many painful years!!! I now show up at family functions with self love n confidence. I can see through all their dysfunction. My response to all their narcissistic abuse is "living well" I no longer take it personally and can sepaeate n detach when needed. It has taken alot of inner work n trust me; life does get better if you work at Self Love!!!

[@GirlsinnahoodMusic]

Wow I know they hate when you show up full of self love and confidence because that means you’ve worked on yourself . Which they don’t get time to do the work because they’re surrounded by dysfunction. Keep striving

[@USAcit]

Thank you for sharing this. I'm sitting here in Madrid on vacation from California and stumbled on your presentation. I am awed by how wonderful you explain the scapegoat. I said to myself out loud, "This is such a great explanation." I have never heard it explained so incredibly clear and interesting. 🎉 Wow!

[@rtshaw3621]

I wish I could meet you. Your courage and story moved me deeply. I am a scapegoat and am 67 and still in deep pain for what my narc mother and sibs plus extended family continues to do to me. I wonder at times what Gods plan is for us scapegoats. I have to believe it is something special because of the unfair suffering we have endured.

[@jessicadora7213]

I feel and have experienced exactly the same, and I am in the same age range as you. Please keep your spirits up, keep moving forward. Do what makes you feel good and happy! Successful healing is in your future (and mine too)❤

[@Ndewszn]

Sounds like you need to escape from them. 😮

[@azaleaslight3599]

I was the escape goat .. that ESCAPED! unlike most, i was PROUD of it because it meant i wasn't THEM. I didn't/wouldn't conform to them to the family's dynamics of abuse of denial of it all. I ESCAPED from it all at 14 and left them it all behind me Was ALWAYS PROUD never ashamed for doing saying what's right as a whole and not just what was right for me. I even reported them to poilice as soon as was old enough, got convictions they were sent to jail, SMASHING the entire family's abusive cycle to pieces EXTREMELY PROUD OF THAT hated even more by the family now ! Doesn't bother me and never has, in fact, it would bother me more if i 'fitted' into the family & if I was acceptable to the family Because then I would be the same as them!

[@azaleaslight3599]

Now was ii angry about it OF COURSE I was But my inner self guided me out of that, showing me it was a BLESSING to be the escape goat Because it helped me ESCAPE from it all and not repeat it all ❤

[@kaylabean3693]

This!! All of this!! We CAN fight back and dammit fighting back Is what I did💪🏽the other side is much better!

[@azaleaslight3599]

@kaylabean3693 TRUTH hats off to you 👏 🙌 we didn't become it couldn't conform to it SMASHED IT so others weren't touched by it ... THATS what it's all about ✨️❤️

[@kaylabean3693]

@@azaleaslight3599Periodt!! We literally took our power back! And I love that so much for us💪🏽💖💖

[@azaleaslight3599]

@@kaylabean3693 I know help others do the same 🙌 once people see the BLESSINGS of not fitting in not conforming to the family dynamics it's a game changer in how they think see feel about themselves, it completely changes the way they see themselves, I love it when I see feel it 'click' inside of them and I know thats it now, it's all they needed was a different perspective about it all about themselves. From ashamed of themselves to PROUD for being the escape goat of the family 🙌❤️

[@lilyghassemzadeh]

My aunts were always fighting. One of them was specially sick. My mom was the healthy one and the scapegoat. I envied healthy families ever since I remember, and probably to the grave.

[@haldisolsen8725]

Thank you. You are brave to speak. When dad died, I was the scapegoat. Now I am homeless at 71 by my families choice.

[@fifilafleur5555]

I am so very very sorry. I pray God protects you and helps you find a way out of that situation. You deserve peace and happiness. I will pray for you. Sending you love & good wishes for hope and better days ahead. Stay safe and God bless you. 🩵🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🩵

[@thedawn4362]

I am 66 and homeless by my sisters withholding my inheritance. You are not alone, be strong. They are the weak and unworthy ones. 🙏

[@lindafolk4598]

​@@thedawn4362that's criminal and so cruel..May the divine assist you. Ask for divine assistance to be helped in a surprising way. Ask deeply and you will receive.❤

[@thedawn4362]

@@fifilafleur5555 Thank you very much 🙏🙏🙏

[@1RUTHGroup]

Bless you sister. We sense your sincerity bc we too have endured this horrible abuse. Something most outside folk don't seem to understand about this wickedness is this: think about it- what type of "mother" actively tries to get people (anyone who will listen) to hate her own child, her own flesh and blood?? Just sayin'. Thank you so much for shedding light on this highly misunderstood topic.

[@EnlightenedGoldenBeauty]

Yes and people will still shame you for walking away from your mother

[@DJ_Dutchess]

My cousin and I connected and she told me our mothers hate themselves. All the venom we get is their own hatred for themselves

[@MK-cc5ve]

I’m a scapegoat, thank you for speaking out so clearly. My Psychopathic Narcissistic mother just died too. They didn’t even write an obituary for her. I’m fixing that. It’s not the eulogy she was expecting. I am writing a clear, honest alert to other family members. And I’m clearing my name in the process.

[@fj2201]

wow. If you don't mind, please come back and share... love stories of people getting justice and taking back their power.

[@JessicaFletcher-nn5ss]

Why bother?

[@Aria-sm7xv]

@@JessicaFletcher-nn5ss Do you mean why bother writing her obit/eulogy? It’s how we process death. Which means life, how we process life.

[@theevolvingmindset333]

Oh my goodness. Your story is similar to mine. My mother died one month ago, July 4th. I didn't go to her services which were held two days ago. They wrote an obituary for her but they were so emotionally charged as she was in her last days. She poisoned their minds and they were coming for me for over a month, trying to get me to fly up there and be around all those low vibrational energies. NO THANK YOU, I'm going to the beach 🧘🏽‍♀🧘🏽‍♀

[@suzannejones2724]

@@theevolvingmindset333 I know my family does not like me either. I know that I would not be treated nice at the funeral when that time comes. I believe she plans on giving everything to my sister anyway. The beach sound good to me also.

[@ASEBGOOD]

For me the real tell tale sign that she was a family scapegoat was the shakiness and insecurity in her voice

[@bunbun_TV]

No matter how much wisdom I gain on these issues it still breaks my heart

[@poodlegirl55]

You are awesome Diane. Thank you for sharing. You describe many families. I broke the cycle in my family and I am glad you did.

[@macareuxmoine]

I can so relate to her watching other people’s family dynamics on American Idol. Things like these always make my heart sink and I ask myself what life could have been with a loving family 😢

[@missmaxinethompson7407]

It always hurts me to the core seeing mother daughters, father -daughters, family cohesion, all of it. I have a Better Father now IJN . The Absolute Best - El Shaddai

[@rockstarofredondo]

Same. I feel like I was held back so much by being deprived of any support system.

[@porterkmusic]

Don't get too caught up in the families on singing shows. They know they're on TV. Of course they will appear supportive. The reality: maybe they are supportive and maybe they are not.

[@johenderson3742]

Yes. Our lost potential.😢

[@Autumn-d3y]

I loved that ❤thank you ! I’m most definitely the scapegoat in my family I isolated myself away from my family going on 3 years now and when you do that the truth begins to surface . My narcissistic father just went to prison for stalking me and actually planning to have me taken out like their life would get better by me not being here like the way their life was again my fault too ! These people are not rational and I know I’m the generational curse breaker and God bless anyone going through this or having gone through it . Life does get better and once you realize the truth you can start to heal and move past this very unfair dysfunction . But like this beautiful woman , we can share our stories and help others get past and avoid these painful situations within their own families.

[@lovely-mk4rt]

I am my families scapegoat. I’m in my 60’s now and just saw a therapist ( 2 times now). It hurts, what is said about me is not true and the loneliness without family is isolating. It’s very hard.

[@blueorion13]

I understand. Keep going to therapy. Please. I am in my 70s . God Bless

[@Ndewszn]

Just know.. they lied on the most high. You gon be ok. Embrace kindness and goodness from small talk and people in your everyday journey! Family is just DNA. They are not bigger than the cause, the mission.

[@GirlsinnahoodMusic]

Tell me about it I’m 25 feeling the loneliness i pray I find a loving family to marry into otherwise I have a long way to go

[@elitecahinyabishop2713]

Thank The Almighty for bringing us back, alive, we'll, and loving from the deserts.

[@theo_nestor_teaches_writers]

Wow! You explain the problem so directly and tell your story so vividly. So many will be helped by this talk.

[@mariehughey5390]

Invisible described my own perception of myself for many years. It’s not now. I love who I am. I have worked very hard to be me.

[@andsail]

The speaker traces the dynamic back to her homeland of Jamaica. The scapegoat mentality is truly a core generational curse that pervades the complicated experience of caribbean peoples. It severely damages young minds contributing to, along with other factors, one of the highest murder rates in the world.

[@niathomas184]

Jamaica has a high murder rate?

[@DJ_Dutchess]

I wondered if this was common or one story. It seems like a post colonial generational wound. The element of race and mixed race and lighter skin tones stems directly from slavery in the US. At some point the victim begins to self destruct 😢

[@vuyissecretgarden]

'If the hand that rocks the cradle is not well, you have to say so, because it will just continue...'

[@karlaugalde8980]

Thank you for sharing your story :) Let them think what they want!! They don't define you as a person. You can be your own mum. You are creating your own loving and supportive family!! That little 8 year old living in you is proud of your bravery!!

[@rayeannebrewer1458]

I was a scapegoat. My sister was the golden child and could do no wrong.

[@lovesings2us]

What a beautiful, strong and gentle talk! Thank you so much! Also, your shirt is a joy and an inspiration to me. Sacred, powerful, healing, liberating art!

[@Sparrow0514]

Thank you for sharing. Your story reminds me of a similarity with mine: My narcissistic mother described how the male children in her family were given different food at table while the girls were left out of having butter, sausage, eggs, etc., She certainly scapegoated her “worthlessness” on to me (she married my dad who thought my brother was worthy of UC Berkeley education etc while I was told to “marry someone rich”), but, by the grace of God I am healing and like you, I pray that my sons receive the same healing and wholeness.

[@ccharles848]

Oh my goodness! This is my family! My mother and her mother “split” the kids by talking terribly about each of us to the others. I think my little sister and I are both scapegoats- all depending on the latest dynamics in the family. I’ve gone no contact which is both wonderful and a bit of a curse. I feel a combination of freedom and guilt pulling away from the family- mainly my toxic mother. Thank you so much for sharing your story. It must have been very difficult to be so vulnerable to a live audience like that. You have helped many of us who’ve had the opportunity to hear your story. Bless you in your continued recovery. 🤗

[@ndl78]

Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story ..your right so many suffer in silence because it’s such a taboo topic

[@rebelinfla]

Very happy she stepped out to share this valuable understanding of the trauma associated with being the scapegoat. I was this person. Hard and confusing life. Grateful, to God who brought me out of this dark place of worthlessness. Great yalk.

[@connollybrid1984]

Thank you Diana for having the courage and strenght to break the circle. You are an amazing person. I'm following in your footsteps.

[@deborahjury884]

Dear heart, I never knew I was the scapegoat, isolated and demonised. Now I am 72 with none of the family to repress me, I am jubilant in the knowledge that I am a beloved mother of children who love and respect me. I still cannot fathom the depth of confusion that harnessed me as a scapegoat, but I know it to be true.

[@thebower8027]

Beautifully spoken! Enjoy your true life now. You are free.♥

[@GirlsinnahoodMusic]

I dream of this freedom I pray for this outcome when it’s all said and done you are very blessed I’m 25 no kids but I have a lovely dog. Who loves me no boyfriend ( what are they good for lol) but I’m very lonely …. 😢

[@c-p1976]

I love her story. Her story is my story. This stuff is real. God bless this woman for speaking out and bringing attention to this abuse within a family. It's taken me decades to understand this dynamic and how I grew up as the family scapegoat.

[@DebPatraker]

Diane, your voice rings with deep emotion and passion. You are a brilliant and brave person. God bless you. Arms around you in a big hug.

[@carolmizelle1317]

I wish I didn't understand how you feel. You said exactly what I've felt for most of my life. I was the scapegoat. Blessings on you. Heartfelt dialogue heals.

[@justice8563]

This makes me cry and shake uncontrollably, because I’m the goat that’s constantly being sent off to the mountain to carry their sins. 😞😭 Hugs to this lady because I relate to everything she is saying. If your family could wish you dead they would, thats how devastating being a scapegoat is, your life means nothing, if they don’t get what they want.

[@ChrisLeeProducer]

Exactly! Always felt like the burden with their passive aggressive remarks and actions that don't match their words.

[@missmaxinethompson7407]

I've been crying and just numb, staring in silence at the screen.

[@Skippy1547]

​@@missmaxinethompson7407you're gonna be ok ❤

[@electricyouare2222]

When I told my family I tried to kill myself. Nobody said anything cause they were trying to avoid the blame.

[@Ndewszn]

We are seeing this right now in real time.