Parenting is one of the most important and challenging jobs in the world. Every parent wants the best for their child, but sometimes, certain behaviors can cause more harm than good.
A childhood trauma therapist, Morgan Pommells, has shared a list of things parents should stop doing to prevent emotional damage in their children, writes Ziare.
Pommells, who specializes in childhood trauma, posted his advice on Instagram. He reassured parents that they don’t need to be perfect.
What matters most is creating a safe and supportive environment. Based on his experience, he identified 12 harmful parenting habits that can negatively affect children in the long run.
Yelling at your child as soon as you get home from work.
Ignoring the entire family when you're angry.
Waking up your children aggressively or with loud noises.
Pommells explains that waking children up in a harsh way can trigger their stress response. If this happens regularly, it can put them in a constant state of fear.
Treating your children differently and showing favoritism.
Saying, "Then I'm the worst parent!" when your child expresses hurt feelings.
Refusing to apologize just because you're the parent.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, childhood trauma is more common than people think.
Over two-thirds of children experience at least one traumatic event before turning 16.
Expecting the whole family to be extra careful around you when you're in a bad mood.
Failing to protect your child from the other parent when they act in a harmful way.
Using your child for emotional support and treating them like a partner.
Parents should always put their child’s emotional well-being first. If not, the child may eventually need therapy to heal from the trauma they experienced.
Treating your child unfairly just to "prepare them for the real world." This only teaches them they don’t deserve fairness.
Seeing your child as an extension of yourself instead of as an independent person.
Expecting your child to be grateful just for providing food and shelter. These are basic responsibilities, not something children owe their parents for.
If parents engage in these behaviors, children are more likely to struggle with self-esteem and resentment.
Pommells acknowledges that most parents don’t mean to cause harm. Many of these habits are done without realizing the long-term impact.
Breaking the cycle of childhood trauma is essential. Parents who create a loving and safe environment help their children develop confidence, strong relationships, and a positive self-image.
Raising a child isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making a conscious effort to be better every day.
The goal is not just to meet a child’s physical needs but to nurture their emotional well-being as well.
