I think Abby Lees psychological problems are great, but it doesn't take Freud to see that Abby Lee acts like a tyrant and bully because she feels in control when she acts this way. It's obvious, by her obesity, that she has no control over herself...so likes to have control over others..especially children who can't stand up to her. She also enjoys the fact that these children are so dedicated to their art that they would do anything to be the best...even if it means being belittled by Abby Lee. Who is this woman anyway? Does she have children herself? Was she ever a professional dancer? I tried to find something online about her and can really find nothing other than clips and comments about the show "dance moms".
Also, these moms should be ashamed of themselves for leaving their children exposed to the disfunction that goes on in that dance school. There are many, many wonderful, talented professional dancers and dance instructors who studied under great dancers who did so without humiliating and belittling them. It's actually abusive what she does to these girls, and the mothers are just as bad. Fighting, cursing, gossiping, yelling...Is there anyone in these girls lives who is an actual real, positive, role model?