###### 🔑 Critical Protectors are not internalized caregivers [[🛡️ Criticizing|🛡️ Critical Protectors]] might criticize us similarly to the way our caregivers did. However, more often than not, the [[💡 Protector Parts|Protectors]] who use this strategy are *not* internalized caregivers, our abusers are **not** living inside us. These are [[💡 Protector Parts|Protectors]] – likely small children who use a parent or authority-figure's voice, appearance, image, or energy to protect us from our [[💡 Exiles]] emotions — perhaps from feelings of worthlessness or being less-than, external abuse from other people, or a fear of rejection or abandonment. Often they try and shame other parts into behaving.[^1] [^1]: [[📖 ✅ IFS Online Circle]] Month 2: The Protective System & Fears of the Protectors - Month 2 with Richard Schwartz