Not sure where this post belongs. My issues are opposite of many on this forum, I was not neglected by my parents, but my mother was a smother or loved me to much. I am in my 50s now, female, and at some point in my early development went the opposite way (I think??). I am guarded and feel like I don't love others that much. She was and still is very childlike, affectionate, always says I love you, but I felt smothered and guilty about not feeling the same way...like if she were a bad mother (neglectful, abusive etc) I could have a good reason for wanting to distance myself, but I can't find anything to "blame" her for other than loving me to much. It has left me feeling I am not good enough, low self esteem, reserved, distant not wanting to get close to people.

Anyone else have a similar problem, I don't hear much about this...usually about neglect.