(a) Recent losses or setbacks
- Losses associated with relationships, friendships or work that diminish feelings of being loved, accepted, competent or worthy (eg. breaking up with a lover, losing a job, a friend moving away)
- Increased involvement in caring for others
- Feeling rejected or ignored
(b) Negative childhood experiences
- Lack of parental affection and warmth
- Fostered or institutional upbringing
- Maternal separation or perceived abandonment
- Excessive discipline
- Excessive chores or responsibilities to look after others whilst still immature
- Sexual victimisation or sexual contact with others whilst still a child
- Witnessing conflict or violence at home
- Witnessing sexual acts by others in real life or in the media