My Fathers Secret

author Arielle J. Scott joins us to discuss her upcoming book, which follows Maya, a character navigating the complexities of having "daddy issues." The term “daddy issues” is often used as slang to describe the psychological effects someone may experience as a result of a troubled, absent, or emotionally unavailable relationship with their father—or father figure. These effects can manifest in many ways, including difficulty trusting others, seeking validation or affection in unhealthy ways, fear of abandonment, attraction to older or emotionally distant partners, and low self-worth or a constant need for reassurance. Psychologically, therapists might refer to this as attachment issues or unresolved parental trauma, often linked to attachment theory, which explores how early caregiver relationships shape our emotional bonds later in life. Unfortunately, “daddy issues” is a term that’s often misused or thrown around to shame people—especially women—for expressing vulnerability or having complex emotional needs. But these wounds are real, and they deserve empathy, not ridicule.