Parental validation can decrease a child's chances of developing mental illness, poor self-esteem later in life
Validating a child's experiences and feelings can help them grow into emotionally secure adults.
Studies have shown that parental validation of a child's feelings and experiences can decrease the likelihood of that child developing emotional problems or disorders later in life. In addition, validation helps children develop a secure sense of self and the ability to regulate their emotions without throwing tantrums. Therapists Karyn Hall and Melissa Cook discuss these surprising facts in their new book The Power of Validation: Arming Your Child Against Bullying, Peer Pressure, Addiction, Self-Harm, & Out-of-Control Emotions (New Harbinger Publications) and explain to parents how they can incorporate validation into their parenting without sacrificing structure or discipline.
“Validation is a powerful concept," they explain. "Researchers believe that life experiences, especially experiences with other people, affect the way the developing brain functions. Basically, using validation effectively and consistently will actually enhance your child’s developing brain."
They further note that because validation helps children build healthy self-esteem, it arms them child against bullies, peer pressure, the need for girls to focus on appearance to attract boys, and much more. "Validation can be one of the best gifts you give your child.”
In the long run, validation can mean the difference in whether a child grows up to be an independent adult or a dependent one, and whether they will be able to process feelings in a healthy way or develop emotional disorders. By learning to recognize and accept their child's thoughts and feelings, regardless of whether or not they agree with them, parents parents can help their kids develop essential skills for the future that will help them develop into well-adjusted, emotionally stable adults.
@newharbinger
Tags:
