This week on ShrinkChicks, Em and Jen are joined by trauma therapist, parenting educator, and cycle-breaking advocate Maggie Nick (AKA Maggie with Perspectacles) to talk about the hidden cost of being the “good kid.” Maggie shares her own story of growing up as the easy, responsible child no one had to worry about, and how perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-criticism often grow out of that role.

They unpack why being praised for being easy can quietly turn into pressure, how approval tied to performance shapes identity, and why many “good kids” become adults who struggle with boundaries, self-worth, and showing their real selves. Maggie also explains how these patterns show up in parenting today and how parents can shift from raising compliant kids to raising emotionally secure ones.

The conversation explores curiosity over criticism, staying connected to your child when they struggle, and why loving your child sometimes means letting go of your ego as a parent. You can learn more about Maggie’s work, her book, and her community Camp Loveable at MaggieNick.com and by following @maggiewithperspectacles on social media.

Tune in to gain insight, awareness, and action!

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The Hidden Cost of Being the “Good Kid” with Maggie Nick