# Why Women Who Are Always Nice Stop Knowing What They Want

> Psychiatrist Tracey Mark explains why women who prioritize others' needs over their own may lose their sense of self.
- Title: Why Women Who Are Always Nice Stop Knowing What They Want
- Summary: Psychiatrist Tracey Mark explains why women who prioritize others' needs over their own may lose their sense of self.
- Keywords: good girl syndrome, psychiatrist tracey mark, mental health, self-worth, personal boundaries, Psychologies
- Source: Psychologies — https://psychologies.com/moi/se-connaitre/psychiatre-Tracey-Mark-pourquoi-femmes-passe-vie-gentilles-ne-savent-plus-veulent-vraiment-558934
- Author: Louise Leboyer
- Published: 2026-11-10T20:08:58+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: good girl syndrome, psychiatrist tracey mark, mental health, self-worth, personal boundaries
## What is the good girl syndrome?
The good girl syndrome, or good girl complex, is a behavioral pattern developed during childhood in girls.

> Selon une étude de l'université de Stanford, les traits de caractère souhaitables chez les femmes sont la chaleur, la loyauté et la gaieté
## Why does this syndrome happen?
Girls are taught to prioritize others' acceptance over their own needs, leading to internalized gender stereotypes.

> De nombreux parents nourrissent ces caractéristiques correspondantes chez leurs fils et leurs filles
## Symptoms of the syndrome
Fear of disappointing others, desire for perfection, obedience to rules, and reluctance to express personal needs.

> Les « filles gentilles» qui font passer les souhaits des autres avant les leurs finissent par se sentir frustrées et pleines de ressentiment
## How to overcome it
Express personal desires clearly, define personal values, and learn to set boundaries without sacrificing kindness.

> N'ayez pas peur de dire ce que vous acceptez et ce que vous refusez
## Key takeaway

Women who consistently please others may lose their sense of self due to the 'good girl syndrome', which prioritizes others' expectations over personal desires.