Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents: Practical Tools to Establish Boundaries & Reclaim Your Emotional Autonomy

by Lindsay C. Gibson

All you have to do is notice how your child is feeling, listen to them with empathy, and let them know that they are securely held in your heart. Apologize when you’re wrong, take them completely seriously, forego sarcasm and mockery, and treat them with respect. When a child knows you are present, respectful, empathetic, and fair, they won’t feel the emotional loneliness you may have felt.

The freedom to think anything in the privacy of your mind is essential for your individuality and autonomy.

It’s too much pressure to try to have a good relationship with them; just try for one constructive interaction in the moment.

In each five-minute conversation, talk about only one interaction. Keep a respectful, curious, and nonaccusatory attitude as you spell out the feelings you got from their behavior. If they interrupt or want to argue, you can acknowledge them, but ask them to let you finish.