The Shocking Truth: Parenting Expectations vs Reality

The Shocking Truth: Parenting Expectations vs Reality

Parenthood is often hailed as one of the most beautiful experiences that one can have, but is it really all sunshine and rainbows? Parenting expectations versus its harsh reality is a topic that needs to be discussed more openly. It is common for parents-to-be to have a lot of dreams, assumptions, and expectations on how their parenting journey would be; however, the reality is oftentimes vastly different. In this article, we explore the truth behind parenting expectations versus reality and what parents can do to cope with the differences.

Expectation 1: Parenting is easy and natural

One of the most common preconceptions of parenting is that it comes instinctively to all, that it is an inborn trait that will come naturally to every parent. However, the reality is quite different. Parenting is not always easy, and most parents struggle to understand the needs of their child. Parenting is a constantly evolving process that requires a lot of patience, time, and energy.

According to a survey conducted by “The Huffington Post”, 92% of parents reported that they found parenting to be more challenging than they expected, with 73% saying that it was a lot more challenging.

Expectation 2: You Can Control Your Child’s Behavior

One of the most significant challenges of parenting is behavioral management. Some parents believe that they can control their child’s behavior by setting rules, rewards, and punishments. The reality is quite different. While these methods might work in the short term, they don’t teach children to make better choices in the long term.

Authoritarian parenting does not cultivate a nurturing and healthy relationship between a parent and child. Instead, it tends to create an environment of fear and hostility. Reasoning with children, setting age-appropriate expectations and consequences, and avoiding punishments can help parents inculcate good behavior in their children without harming the parent-child relationship.

Expectation 3: You Will Instill Your Own Values To Your Children

Every parent wants to instill their own values and beliefs in their children. However, parents must realize that their children are their own individuals. Differences in values and beliefs are natural, and parents must learn to respect and acknowledge them.

Allowing kids to challenge their parent’s values and beliefs can help create deeper conversations and stronger parent-child bonds. Parents must find the middle ground in reconciling differences between their beliefs and their child’s perspectives.

Expectation 4: You’ll Cherish Every Moment

One of the common notions that parents have is that they will cherish every moment of their child’s life. The reality is that life rarely goes as planned, and children can have unexpected illnesses, snap at their parents, or be ungrateful.

Parenting is full of challenging and difficult moments. However, instead of viewing these moments as negative, parents must understand they are opportunities for growth. These moments help parents to become better parents, understand their child’s needs, and foster stronger relationships with them.

Conclusion

Parenting is a challenging, unpredictable journey, that’s full of surprises. Parenting expectations versus reality is an important conversation that needs to be had more openly. Parents who understand these differences and learn to embrace them will be better equipped to handle the challenges that come their way. Adapting to unexpected situations, being flexible, and a good listener, creates a strong and healthy relationship between parent and child. Parenthood isn’t easy, but with love, perseverance, and empathy, it is one of the most rewarding experiences for parents.