When Parents Love Too Much: Freeing Parents and Children to Live Their Own Lives

by Laurie Ashner, Laurie Ashner

Children, like trees, need a little space to grow. So, why do we as parents hinder the development of our children by being overly protective, indulgent, and assertive with them? When Parents Love Too Much explores the all-too-common problems of over-protection, guilt, low self-esteem, and family conflict which spring from excessive parental attachment. The authors skillfully show how children, smothered by well-intentioned parents, can become adults who remain dependent on their parents, struggle to establish a sense of self, have difficulty making decisions, and often find their personal and intimate relationships disappointing. Authors Ashner and Meyerson write to help not only parents who "love too much" and can't let go of their children, but also to adults who suffer from the consequences of their parents' unhealthy dependence. This book offers solutions and hope for those of us who need to learn to detach with love. About the Authors: Laurie Ashner is a writer, certified educational therapist, psychotherapist, and columnist for Chicago Life magazine. She has appeared on numerous national radio and television programs. Mitch Meyerson is a licensed psychotherapist and an expert in the treatment of dysfunctional relationships and impaired self-esteem. He frequently lectures and conducts seminars on personal growth.Ashner and Meyerson are also co-authors of the book When is Enough, Enough? "This is an important book. It definitely touched some of my parenting issues."--John Bradshaw, author of Creative Love, Homecoming, and Healing the Shame that Binds You.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

360 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1990

Reviews

[Norman Styers]

Like many self-help books, it has the defect of explaining away opposites. Are your children fiercely independent to the point of having nothing to do with you? You probably smothered them. Are your children incapable of doing anything without consulting you? You probably smothered them too much. Books like this may have some value in raising issues that can then be discussed with an actual therapist, but they can't really give any actual guidance themselves.