how did elon musk's father screw him up

Let's just say the apple doesn't often fall far from the tree.

ChatGPT said:

Elon Musk has spoken publicly about his difficult relationship with his father, Errol Musk, describing him as a highly intelligent but deeply problematic figure. Here are some key ways in which Musk has suggested his father negatively impacted him:

1. Abusive Childhood

• Musk has said that his father was emotionally and verbally abusive. He has described him as a “terrible human being” and has hinted at traumatic experiences growing up in South Africa.
• In interviews, Musk has mentioned that his father would frequently belittle and manipulate him, making his childhood very difficult.

2. Financial and Moral Controversies

• Errol Musk has been involved in various controversies, including claims that he made money in ethically questionable ways, such as investing in emerald mines.
• Musk has distanced himself from his father and said that, contrary to popular belief, he did not get financial help from him to build his businesses.

3. Family Scandals

• One of the most shocking aspects of Errol’s life is his relationship with his stepdaughter, Jana Bezuidenhout, whom he helped raise from a young age. He later had two children with her. This scandal reportedly disgusted Elon and further fractured their relationship.

4. Lack of Support and Encouragement

• Musk has implied that his father was not supportive of his ambitions, often dismissing his goals as unrealistic.
• Instead of encouragement, Musk said he often faced criticism and negativity from his father, which likely fueled his desire to prove him wrong.

5. Psychological Manipulation

• Musk has claimed that his father is a master manipulator and has caused immense suffering to those around him.
• He has stated that Errol “knows how to make people feel bad” and that he has done “almost every evil thing you can imagine.”

Despite these challenges, Musk has often framed his difficult upbringing as something that made him more resilient. While he has succeeded despite his father, he clearly holds deep resentment toward him, calling him one of the most unpleasant people he has ever known.