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Here are five tips to improve the parent-child dysfunctional dynamic

Updated On: 08 October, 2023 02:21 PM IST | Aakanksha Ahire

Ahead of World Mental Health Day 2023, Dr Shaunak Ajinkya, consultant, psychiatrist, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, shares helpful tips for improving parent-child dysfunctional dynamic

Every year, World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10. Photo Courtesy: iStock

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Every year, World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Open communicationEncourage open and honest communication. Let your children know they can come to you with their thoughts, questions, and concerns without fear of being judged. Listen actively and pay close attention when your child talks to you. 

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Open communication
Encourage open and honest communication. Let your children know they can come to you with their thoughts, questions, and concerns without fear of being judged. Listen actively and pay close attention when your child talks to you. 

Acknowledge your child's emotionsLet them know that it's okay to feel the way they do and that their feelings are valid. Show empathy and understanding even if you may not agree initially with their perspective. 

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Acknowledge your child's emotions
Let them know that it's okay to feel the way they do and that their feelings are valid. Show empathy and understanding even if you may not agree initially with their perspective. 

Avoid overreactingWhen your child makes a mistake or faces a challenge, respond calmly and constructively rather than reacting with anger or disappointment. Set realistic expectations about your child's abilities and behaviours. Avoid placing excessive pressure on them to achieve perfection. Celebrate their achievements, big or small. Assure your child that your love is unwavering and not dependent on their achievements.

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Avoid overreacting
When your child makes a mistake or faces a challenge, respond calmly and constructively rather than reacting with anger or disappointment. Set realistic expectations about your child's abilities and behaviours. Avoid placing excessive pressure on them to achieve perfection. Celebrate their achievements, big or small. Assure your child that your love is unwavering and not dependent on their achievements.

Respect the young adult’s privacyAs your child grows, respect their need for privacy. Avoid intruding on their personal space or possessions without a valid reason.

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Respect the young adult’s privacy
As your child grows, respect their need for privacy. Avoid intruding on their personal space or possessions without a valid reason.

Be a positive role modelDemonstrating kindness, empathy and effective problem-solving around them. Children often learn by observing their parents' behaviour. If you make a mistake or react inappropriately, be willing to apologise and admit your error. This models accountability and demonstrates that it's okay to make amends.

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Be a positive role model
Demonstrating kindness, empathy and effective problem-solving around them. Children often learn by observing their parents' behaviour. If you make a mistake or react inappropriately, be willing to apologise and admit your error. This models accountability and demonstrates that it's okay to make amends.

Photo of Day

Global AI leaders join PM Modi in a bid to push for a smarter, inclusive future

Global AI leaders join PM Modi in a bid to push for a smarter, inclusive future

PM Narendra Modi joins hands with Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and others during the India AI Impact Summit 2026, in New Delhi. PIC/PTI

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