I would not be surprised if it happened to me, come to think of it. I only pick a-holes, and strangely enough, they are always just like my mother. Yes, I marry/date men who turn out to be just like my mother.

If I would EVER date again (not likely), my first question at dinner would be, "So.... what's YOUR problem?" Cuz I just know, by the fact that I'm interested, that they have a problem I've glommed on to. Control freak, major manipulator, guilt-tripper, self-esteem destroyer...

I don't know how I manage to do that, though I have figured out why.

(Wondering if you were your ex's #2 pick as well.)

and since I was just working up the self esteem/nerve to try dating again, it is a definite downturn of mood. Since this dating site has a block feature, I made myself 'invisible' to her posting. Self esteem issues are a part of my anxiety/depression, and the idea of 'making myself invisible' again, it's bitterly ironic.

Reading about narcissistic parents and the damage they do to children? It helped me so very much. Once I learned the signs of narcissism I was able to avoid toxic people and I have the most wonderful man in the world as a husband now.

sibling's name as one of two?
Didn't happen to me, but someone near by.