Three Parenting Pitfalls That Can Impact Mental Health

Creating an open, healthy relationship between children and caregivers is vital, and there are some things that may get in the way of well intentioned parents.

 

No parent can claim to have cracked the code on how to raise children. We are all trying to do what is best for our young ones. Yet, mental and behavioral health challenges are at an all time high in America. Understanding a few of the pitfalls parents may fall into can help you guide your children while maintaining a positive relationship.

Watch Your Parenting Style

You can sometimes differentiate between democratic and dictatorial home settings by observing how the kids behave around the parents.

Unfortunately, most caregivers don’t know the difference between authoritative parents and authoritarian parents. They want to be authoritative, but they end up being authoritarian. The latter method can lead to relationship challenges.

Experts say that authoritarian parents leave no room for failure. They give orders without explanation, and failure to obey or produce the results the parent wants results in yelling, criticism, and punishment. This can result in a fear of making mistakes and a lack of trust. Authoritative parents, on the other hand, can end up with respectful and trusting children.

Be There When You Can

If your kids keep complaining that you are never available for them, don’t dismiss them. Instead, promise to share your free time with them. 

Counselors argue that children with absentee parents are at a higher risk of developing mental, emotional, and social instability. If you are not physically present, you can choose to call them at least once a day.

Build Trust

Recently, one of my friends shared that her daughter had depression.

On enquiring further, we learned that the young girl was in a toxic relationship, and each time she tried to leave, the man threatened to hurt her. The shocking thing is, when the counselor asked the girl why she didn’t confide in her mother, she said that she didn’t trust her.

When a child does not show trust, don’t dismiss yourself as a bad parent. Most parents assume that trust between parent and child comes automatically. That’s not true. But do your best to keep the door for conversation open.


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