Reciprocal Roles Explained
A clear explanation of reciprocal roles — the relational patterns we learn early in life and carry into current relationships.
Reciprocal roles are the relationship patterns we learn early in life and carry into our current relationships. They're like templates for how we relate to others — and to ourselves.
What are reciprocal roles?
Every relationship involves two positions that go together. If someone is critical, someone else is being criticised. If someone is caring, someone else is being cared for. As children, we learn both sides of these relationships.
Example
A child whose parents were often critical may develop a "Criticising → Criticised" reciprocal role. As an adult, they might: • Criticise themselves harshly • Expect others to criticise them • Become critical of others • Seek out relationships with critical people