Parenting a Gen Z daughter involves learning from her approach to emotional expression. Unlike her millennial parent, who suppressed emotions, she openly communicates her feelings. When she critiqued her mother’s communication style, it prompted reflection and a desire to understand her perspective. This experience revealed a shift in generational attitudes toward mental health and self-advocacy. The parent recognizes the importance of listening and validating emotions rather than asserting authority, which is essential for breaking a cycle of emotional repression.
At her age, I kept my emotions to myself. Growing up, expressing my emotions was often thought to be a show of weakness or rebellion, and calling out my mother on something certainly wasn't an option I ever considered.
Breaking a generational cycle means not yelling when my daughter does things that upset me. But it's so much more than that. It's about learning that...
My daughter is part of a generation redefining mental health and standing up for themselves. She has emotional tools and knows how to use them.
One night during a conversation, she said, 'You don't have to fix everything, just listen.' I let her words sink in.
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