Psychotherapist & Family Systems Expert at Family Scapegoat Education
Rebecca C. Mandeville coined the research-supported terms 'family scapegoating abuse' (FSA) and 'family scapegoat trauma' (FST) and is a recognized thought leader in understanding the consequences of being in the family 'identified patient' or 'scapegoat' role. Her best-selling book, 'Rejected, Shamed, and Blamed', is the first book ever written on FSA. Rebecca is now working on a book of reflections with affirmations to support adult survivors in their FSA recovery. Rebecca serves as a YouTube Health Partner via her channel Beyond Family Scapegoating Abuse and is also active on Instagram and Facebook.
Latest posts by Rebecca C. Mandeville, MA (see all)
- Radical Acceptance and Scapegoat Recovery: The Power of Accepting What IS - November 5, 2023
- Study on Childhood Verbal Abuse - October 7, 2023
- Key Findings From My Recent FSA Survey (2023) - September 3, 2023
This article was originally published on Psych Central as an advance preview of my book on family scapegoating abuse (FSA), Rejected, Shamed, and Blamed. To comply with current publishing requirements, I am no longer able to offer portions of this book for free online and the article has therefore been deleted (it is available as a chapter in my book).
Visit my blog to see more articles on family scapegoating.
Rebecca C. Mandeville, MA, MFT
I just read your insightful book. It’s so reassuring to read that others recognize and understand the dynamics and deep pain of being scapegoated. Thank you for your work! I have an appointment with my therapist next week, but she’s not as well versed in these issues as I would hope. At least she’s someone to vent to during a particularly difficult time following the death of my mother and the associated cruelty of my sisters.
Hi Calista,
Thank you for taking the time to comment, and I’m glad you are finding my book helpful. You might invite your therapist to read my book – It might help them better understand your experiences and other clinicians have written me to tell me it was very informative and aided them in understanding and helping their scapegoated clients. I wish you the very best in your healing journey.
So far the information I’ve read has been spot on. I’m my family’s scapegoat along with complex ptsd, learning disabilities, addictions and have been trying to recover for years in several 12 step programs. I just turned 60 yes old and this ” thing” has ruined my life. I would love to be part of any research you need.
Hi Lisa, I’m glad to hear it, and I appreciate your letting me know that you resonate with my offerings. I do hope you get a chance to read my book, Rejected, Shamed, and Blamed, as well. And thank you for offering to participate in any research. The FSA Survey is located in the menu on this website. I am still accepting completed surveys.