Dr. Yasmin Hayat, a clinical psychologist, warned that parental overcontrol, constant criticism, and emotional neglect can harm children's psychological growth, even when parents engage in such behaviors out of love and concern. She emphasized the importance of balance between discipline and emotional understanding and allowing children to develop independence.
Parenting Challenges in Modern Society
In an interview, Dr. Hayat pointed out the challenges of parenting in modern society, stating that parents must provide clear boundaries and emotional security while also offering opportunities for children to develop self-confidence, resilience, and decision-making skills. She explained that modern parenting comes with challenges that previous generations did not face, particularly the increasing influence of social media, constant digital communication, and the vast amount of information available online.
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According to her, social media has created a new challenge for children and teenagers that affects their sense of acceptance and comparison with others at all hours of the day. These issues are particularly significant in Kuwait, where there is tension between traditional parenting approaches and an emphasis on emotional awareness and children's autonomy.
Emotional Harm and Its Impact on Children's Development
Dr. Hayat also emphasized that child abuse is not limited to physical or sexual violence but also includes emotional abuse and neglect, which are harder to identify. She explained that constant insults, threats, criticism, and a child's sense of responsibility for their parents' emotions can be severely damaging. She stressed that effective discipline should focus on teaching appropriate behavior rather than imposing punishment or creating emotional distress.
For example, in the event of a fight between siblings, parents should intervene assertively and set clear boundaries without resorting to yelling, humiliation, or threats. She warned that criticizing a child's character instead of their inappropriate behavior can have more serious psychological consequences.
Dr. Hayat noted that negative emotional experiences in childhood can affect a child's self-perception and their relationships with others. According to her, such experiences may lead to perfectionism, chronic self-doubt, and fear of disappointing others in adulthood.
Ultimately, Dr. Hayat emphasized that emotional neglect can occur even in families where a child's material needs are well met. She explained that children in financially comfortable environments may face emotional deprivation if their feelings are consistently ignored.
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