Asking Eric: I don't love my mom. That doesn't make me a sociopath.
Briefly

Social relationships often require individuals to discuss parental connections, which can lead to misunderstandings for those with estranged relationships. Some people may assume negative traits due to a lack of a close relationship with parents. You should recognize that any expectations about your relationship with your parents stem from the perceptions of others, not your reality. It’s important to process your own feelings about your parents, possibly with the help of a friend or counselor, to better handle these conversations while maintaining your boundaries.
Through dating, or any social interaction, you're likely to find people who have all kinds of relationships with their parents—close, estranged, complicated, and more.
If you're encountering people who are putting an expectation on you regarding your relationship with your parents, know that that's less about you and more about them.
By processing your feelings about your parents, you'll better equip yourself to navigate these interactions, but that doesn't mean you need to pursue reconciliation.
Talking with a friend or counselor about the difficulty you've had with your parents might help you understand your emotions and improve interactions.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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