It is natural for parents to feel concerned about their children, and they have definitely done so at some point. However, excessive worry displayed by parents can cause children to also easily feel anxious, Thecuy.
It’s as if every step they take will lead to something scary, or they might feel anxious because they fear disappointing their parents’ expectations.
Summarized from Huff Post and Psychology Today, here are some parental habits that can make children easily feel anxious.
1. Terlalu Berhati-Hati
Illustration of mother and child/ Photo: Pexels.com/Ketut Subianto
One parental habit that can make children easily anxious is being overly cautious. Clinical psychologist and author Jenny Yip explains that this habit can trigger anxiety in children.
Because when parents constantly tell their children to be careful, it indirectly makes parents warn children about dangers all the time.
Uttering sentences like, “Be careful, you’ll fall” can create self-doubt in the child. This vigilance can be beneficial to a certain extent depending on the child’s character, but it shouldn’t be repeated endlessly, Thecuy.
On the other hand, parents should pay attention to how often they warn their children and focus on helping them understand why something is considered dangerous.
For example, prohibiting jumping off a table because a table is not a place for playing or jumping. Explaining the reason behind the rule to children allows them to understand various issues and build self-confidence to make wise decisions independently.
2. Kurang Mengekspresikan Emosi
Illustration of mother and child/ Photo: Freepik.com/peoplecreations
If parents don’t discuss emotions openly or don’t provide a safe space for children to express their feelings, this can trigger emotional suppression and anxiety, Thecuy.
Children need to feel that they are allowed to share their emotions without being judged. For example, parents can invite children to share stories, whether about simple things at school or other more complex matters.
In addition, provide feedback when needed and make this moment a joint discussion with the child, so that the child understands the parents’ opinion about it.
3. Lebih Memuji Hasil daripada Usaha
Illustration of parents and child/ Photo: Magnific
A parent’s attitude that tends to praise success instead of the effort the child makes can trigger anxiety. Because many children will feel anxious and worried about disappointing their parents if they are not the best in everything.
Therefore, parents also need to praise children and provide positive affirmations to appreciate their efforts, and remind them that no matter what the result, they are still valuable children who are loved by their parents.
Research has shown the benefits of focusing on effort rather than the end result. This approach eliminates a lot of harmful pressure and helps children realize that they are already good enough, even if they are not excellent in everything.
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