This article addresses some common concerns that parents have about how to assess themselves. It offers guidelines for understanding the difference between nurturing and critical/abusive parenting.
Often I hear parents expressing concern that their children are not adequately prepared for life as an adult. Accompanying these worries is an almost unbearable amount of self criticism in relation to their parenting competency. These concerns are similar to one another, but come in many shades. Here are a few that I have heard, either as a counselor or in some other situation. As you read down this list, I would suggest that you consider the following questions. Listen to your thoughts. Do you view the list as having nothing to do with you? Do you find yourself criticizing the author of the list? Do you breathe a sigh of relief, as you read an item and realize it isn