The article discusses the complexities of feelings surrounding children and motherhood. Through a personal anecdote, the author reflects on a conversation with her aunt about disliking kids generally but loving one’s own. It highlights how people's blunt expressions about children often mask more nuanced sentiments, including ambivalence about parenting. The author notes that such reductive statements often communicate anxiety, regrets, or the challenge of engaging with children, rather than an outright dislike of them. Ultimately, this conversation opens a dialogue about the real emotions behind how individuals relate to children.
In adolescence and early adulthood, I wasn't someone whom anyone described as being "good with kids." My sister was often preferred over me for babysitting.
People frequently use reductive language when talking about children: They "like," "do not like," or even "hate" kids, but this often simplifies their complex emotions.
I think people are attempting to express more complex emotions in language that feels intuitive. Saying "I don't like kids" can mean many things.
My aunt reassured me that it was normal to have ambivalence about children, suggesting that even she didn't always like kids, only her own.
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