The antithesis of positive parenting is toxic parenting, but it’s a relatively new concept that came from the book Toxic Parenting written back in 2002. But what is it? What effect can it have on child development and ultimately how can you stop it from happening to you? That’s something that we look at now in greater detail.
What Are the Signs of a Toxic Parent?
Well, to begin with, it’s important to say that it’s not something that can be defined medically and can manifest differently from parent to parent. However, the common denominators in most cases are that the parent in question will neglect the emotional needs of their child, preferring to behave in ways that cause fear, guilt and unhappiness.
These behaviours are typically not isolated either; rather, they form part of a much larger pattern that can hugely impact young minds from a child psychology perspective. However, that doesn’t mean that a toxic parent is the wrong person, as many have the best intentions - they just go about it the wrong way.
Toxic parenting traits can manifest in a range of different ways, including:
- Caring more about their own needs than those of their kids
- An inability to admit blame for anything
- Verbal and/or physical child abuse
- Controlling behaviours include not allowing their child any privacy
- Overly critical of their child’s behaviour
Now, these types of things can happen to anybody on a bad day, so if it only happens from time to time, that doesn’t make you a toxic parent. That’s because a toxic parent will exhibit these behaviours more often than they don’t.
How to Avoid Being a Toxic Parent?
The first thing that you can do if you think you may be borderline as a parent is to listen to your children, just like you would with adults. You also need to be emotionally available and supportive in helping them grow as people, with their needs first and foremost.
That said, if it doesn’t come naturally - and don’t feel bad if it doesn’t as you’re not on your own - a parenting course can really help. For instance, the wide range of parenting & relationships courses we offer at Online Courses Australia can provide you with everything you need to be the best parent you can be. What’s more, all tuition is provided online, meaning you can fit it around your busy life.
All the Training You Need to Be a Great Parent or Educator
The parental guidance you provide to your children shapes them as people, positively or negatively. Some people take to parenting like a duck to water, but if you don’t find it so easy, learning online is a great way to supplement your knowledge. It’s also a great way to develop your career if you’re a professional educator.
If you’d like to know more about the CPD-approved courses we offer that have been designed in collaboration with industry experts, head over to our website www.onlinecoursesaustralia.edu.au today. Alternatively, if there’s anything you need any advice about prior to enrolment, give us a call today on 1300 611 404 and we’ll ensure that you get all the answers you need.
