menu_open Columnists
Fern Schumer Chapman

Fern Schumer Chapman

Psychology Today

We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

When Cutting Off a Narcissistic Sibling Is Self-Protection

When Cutting Off a Narcissistic Sibling Is Self-Protection

For some, distance may be the healthiest option.

previous day 50

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

When Caring for Mom or Dad Divides a Family

A new survey finds that the stress of caring for aging parents can break sibling bonds.

04.08.2026 70

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

A Terminal Illness Sets a Cruel Deadline for the Estranged

The royal family’s divide reveals why a health crisis can reopen old wounds.

22.07.2026 250

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

A Midlife Awakening: Seeing Things Anew in Our 50s and 60s

In midlife, some see things with fresh eyes, requiring a narrative revision.

01.07.2026 80

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

Why Divorce Can Lead to Sibling Cutoffs and Parental Alienation

Disrupting familiar patterns, divorce can disrupt all family relationships.

22.04.2026 100

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

New Voices on Social Media Empower Alienated Parents

Parents on social media find they aren't alone: "It's a pain you can't describe!"

24.02.2026 150

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

An "Awkward Grief" for Her Half-Brother—in Life and in Death

13.01.2026 350

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

How Estrangement Erodes the Ability to Trust

03.01.2026 150

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

For the Estranged, a Loaded Question Stirs Up Loss and Shame

22.12.2025 150

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

A Narcissist in the Family Often Leads to Estrangement

12.11.2025 100

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

How Fawning Fosters Distance in Adult Relationships

14.10.2025 100

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

Do You Really Want to Reconcile With Your Estranged Sibling?

05.09.2025 100

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman

How Therapists and Internet Culture Drive Estrangements

01.07.2025 250

Psychology Today

Fern Schumer Chapman