Growing up, I was no stranger to criticism. Now, as an adult, I can’t help but notice its lingering effects on my self-esteem, my internal narrative, and my motivation. For better or worse, that criticism has shaped me. In this episode, we explore how a critical environment can influence marriages and parenting. We unpack the early warning signs that criticism could signal in marriages, and draw parallels with our relationships with our children.
Moving into the second half, we shift our focus to communication with our children. The weight of criticism is heavy on their growing shoulders. It can knock their self-esteem down, and shape their inner voice, sometimes in damaging ways. It’s a balance we have to strike – maintaining firmness without sacrificing warmth and sensitivity. Listen in as we delve into the power and potential of language. We discuss how our words can inspire our children, rather than criticize them, and how we can foster their growth, instead of stifling it. This episode is not just about the impact of criticism; it’s a conversation about resilience, nurturing positive relationships, and the immeasurable power we hold as parents.
Cindy Hovington, Ph.D. is the founder of Curious Neuron and the host of the Curious Neuron Podcast. She is a mom of 3 from Montreal, Canada and has a doctorate degree in neuroscience (specializing in mental health and emotions). Her mission is to support parents in developing skills and habits that will allow them to proactively nurture their well-being. Parents can develop leadership and coaching skills and learn science-based well-being tips focused in psychology and neuroscience. Join the Reflective Parent to feel empowered and connected in your parenting journey!