What Is An Unhealthy Parent-Child Relationship?
What Is An Unhealthy Parent-Child Relationship?
Parents have the best intention to raise a healthy, happy, and independent child. Most parents resort to using a parenting model they are familiar with based on their upbringing.
The parenting model you use can lead to an unhealthy parent-child relationship. What is an unhealthy parent-child relationship?
An unhealthy parent-child relationship disregards the fact that your child is an equal soul as you and therefore should be treated that way despite the body or role it is currently in with you. Your child’s soul may be older than yours, but it came on earth and into your life to help your soul grow.
It can include showing conditional love, emotional manipulation, disrespect, lack of trust and boundaries, exertion of excessive control, neglect, and mental, emotional, or physical abuse.
So, you may be wondering how you improve and build a better relationship with your child if it is currently unhealthy. Let’s discuss how you can do that next.
8 Questions To Ask Your Child For A Better Relationship
Parenting does not come with a manual, but what if I told you the secret to a stronger bond with your child lies in just a few thoughtful questions? Kids often have so much to say, but they are waiting for us to open the door.
Here are 8 powerful questions every parent needs to ask their kids. These questions will help you understand their world, strengthen your connection, and foster trust like never before.
‘What’s One Thing You Wish I Knew About You Right Now?’
This question shows your child that you are genuinely interested in their inner world. It gives them a safe space to share something they might not normally bring up.
The answer to this question allows you to get to know your child better and have meaningful conversations with them based on what they share. It will give you an insight into what they consider to be important to them right now.
‘How Do You Feel About The Time We Spend Together?’
Sometimes, kids crave more of us or less of certain things we do. This question lets them express their needs without fear of judgment.
The answer to this question will give you guidance on whether the time you spend is mutually beneficial, enough, or do you need to change what you do together or how often you do it.
‘When Do You Feel Happiest?’
Understanding what lights your child up helps you create more moments of joy together and shows that their happiness matters to you.
The answer to this question will help you understand what makes them happy and better plan events, moments, and experiences more often so that you can experience lots of moments of joy and happiness together.
‘What’s Been The Hardest Thing For You Lately?’
This opens the door for vulnerability. Even if they don’t answer right away, it plants the seed that you’re there when they’re ready to talk.
The answer to this question will allow you to be vulnerable with them so that they know they are not the only ones going through hard times. You can also inspire and help them realize that like you they are strong enough to overcome anything.
‘What’s Something You Are Proud Of That I Might Not Know About?’
Kids often have small wins they keep to themselves. Celebrating those moments together can be incredibly affirming.
The answer to this question will help you celebrate their accomplishments and teach them the importance of stopping and celebrating wins no matter the size.
‘Is There Anything I Do That Makes You Feel Unheard Or Misunderstood?’
This one takes courage but is so worth it. It teaches your child that even parents can improve and value their feedback.
The answer to this question will help you improve as a parent and make sure that you are making your children feel heard and understood. It will also teach them that no one is perfect and there is always room for growth and improvement no matter who you are.
‘What’s Something You Wish We Could Do More Of Together?’
This gives your child the chance to share their hopes for more connection and fun, helping you prioritize meaningful activities.
The answer to this question will help you plan and create more moments and experiences that your child enjoys and wishes to do more often with you.
‘How Can I Support You Better?’
This is the ultimate show of love and humility. It reminds your child that your role is to be in their corner, always.
The answer to this question will give you insights, ideas, and ways to show more support and be there for your child.
In conclusion, you now know an unhealthy parent-child relationship disregards the fact that your child is an equal soul as you and therefore should be treated that way despite the body or role it is currently in with you. Your child’s soul may be older than yours, but it came on this earth and into your life to help your soul grow.
It can include showing conditional love, emotional manipulation, disrespect, lack of trust and boundaries, exertion of excessive control, neglect, and mental, emotional, or physical abuse.
You also learnt how to improve an unhealthy relationship by asking 8 specific questions.
Parenting is a journey of learning and growing alongside your child. These 8 questions might seem simple, but they can create profound shifts in your relationship. They tell your kids, ‘I see you, I value you, and I want to understand you.’
I hope you will start asking these questions today and share them with all the parents that you know so that they can also improve their parent-child relations!
Next, read why is a parent-child relationship important? for further helpful insights and tips.