Lindsay Stephens answers “What was missing in Vanessa's childhood...”

A Goodreads user asked this question about My Dark Vanessa:

What was missing in Vanessa's childhood that made her such easy pickings? I kept waiting for some psychological explanation from her therapist. Vanessa was an only child and, except for a mother who was annoyingly intrusive and sometimes critical, there was no abuse, nothing to make her crave such intense "adoration," no explanation for her being so easily manipulated.

Lindsay Stephens Really? Why are you blaming her for being a victim? Why not the man who preyed upon her. What was wrong or missing in his childhood that caused him to…moreReally? Why are you blaming her for being a victim? Why not the man who preyed upon her. What was wrong or missing in his childhood that caused him to abuse a child?(less)

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Arlyne B. There was no blame intended, just a desire to understand why one young person is vulnerable and another isn't. And, you're absolutely right to questio ...more
Jan 09, 2021 05:31PM · flag

Melanie I agree. Asking what was wrong with Vanessa leads to victim blaming.
Mar 18, 2022 06:28AM · flag

Just Me It's not victim blaming to point out that people with other trauma are less protected against predators. Arlyne B. didn't ask what was wrong with Vane ...more
Aug 12, 2023 09:22AM · flag

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