When Your Child Starts Sounding Like Your Ex
Briefly

The article explores how children often pick up unhealthy behavioral patterns from their parents, particularly during high-stress situations like homework. A case study of Laura and her son Ethan reveals how Ethan's initial dishonesty and defensiveness reflect underlying struggles and a fear of parental disappointment. The piece emphasizes that conditional love can harm a child's self-esteem and suggests that having two supportive homes might offer children a healthier environment. It also stresses the importance of parental awareness in recognizing and addressing negative patterns that children may emulate.
Children often pick up on their parents' unhealthy behaviors, using them as coping mechanisms in their own interactions.
When love feels conditional, children's self-esteem can take a hit, reshaping their responses and behavior in significant ways.
Having two homes can create a healthier environment for children, offering opportunities to break negative patterns inherited from one home.
If you notice your child mimicking negative behaviors of your ex, it’s critical to reflect on your own patterns and seek to help them.
Read at Psychology Today
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