drpts

s a parenting coach, I have seen firsthand the damaging effects of wrong parenting. In this article, I will share three shocking stories and use them as metaphors to highlight the importance of good parenting.

The Helicopter Parent: A helicopter parent is someone who hovers over their child, monitoring their every move and decision. A few years ago, a mother called me in tears because her son had dropped out of college. She admitted to doing everything for him, from waking him up to packing his lunch. Her son had no sense of responsibility or independence, and ultimately he couldn't handle the pressures of college. The metaphor here is that a helicopter parent is like a helicopter hovering over their child, preventing them from developing their own wings and flying on their own. The Absent Parent: Another form of wrong parenting is being absent from your child's life. A father once confided in me that he regretted missing out on his son's childhood. He was too busy with work and other commitments, and his son grew up feeling neglected and unloved. Now, as an adult, his son has cut off all contact with him. The metaphor here is that an absent parent is like a tree that fails to provide the shade, shelter, and nourishment that a growing sapling needs. The Overbearing Parent: Finally, we have the overbearing parent who micromanages their child's life. A mother once shared with me how she pressured her daughter to pursue a career in medicine even though the daughter had no interest in it. The daughter went along with her mother's wishes but ended up miserable and burnt out. The metaphor here is that an overbearing parent is like a sculptor who molds their child into their own image, regardless of the child's own hopes and dreams. In conclusion, parenting is a crucial responsibility that requires balance, sensitivity, and love. The three stories I shared illustrate how different forms of wrong parenting can lead to disastrous outcomes. As a parent, it's important to give your child the freedom to grow, the attention they need, and the guidance to pursue their own passions. for parental guidnace @drsuntrg@gmail.com.