I do think culturally there is a lot of self-centeredness.

There is a lot of quote-unquote narcissistic behavior patterns.

We see it in the church a lot.

We see it, you know, it's hurting people.

So I don't, I think there's a reason why we're throwing that word around a lot.

And I always go back to it, if any of these words, it's someone who's not doing their own

work.

You're listening to God Hears Her, a podcast for Women, where we explore the stunning

truth that God hears you, he sees you, and he loves you because you are his.

Find out how these realities free you today on God Hears Her. Welcome to God Hears Her. I'm Alisa Morgan.

And I'm Aaron Eddie Atkins. How often do you hear the terms narcissism, blame shifting,

and gaslighting? Are you familiar with them? Have you

experienced them? Today we're talking with expert Dr. Allison Cook about all of these behaviors

and how we can identify them in ourselves and in our relationships. She also will share with us

the importance of developing our selfhood

and what that looks like. There's so much to take away from this conversation.

We are so honored to speak with Dr. Allison. I have personally been changed by her work.

And I'm so excited for you to join this conversation with us on God hears her. Let's start

with learning about how Dr. Allison got into the field of psychology. Well, you know, it's interesting

because our greatest strengths also become our biggest blind spots in a way, right? And I was good at it.

I'm high in empathy. I think empathy is my top strength on strength finders.

There was some safety in me that just naturally God gave me.

...