23 Toxic Parenting Behaviors & 20 Must-Knows to Help You Break the Cycle

From chronic guilt to emotional suppression, these are some of the lesser-known toxic parenting behaviors to watch out for.

Have you ever wondered why certain things your parents did still stick with you? Maybe it was the constant nagging about your grades or the way they never seemed to listen to your side of the story. This might be what we call toxic parenting.

Toxic parenting isn’t about parents being evil or malicious. It’s about behaviors that, knowingly or unknowingly, can hurt a child’s emotional well-being.

Whether it’s over-controlling every aspect of their life, using guilt as a tool, or constantly comparing them to others, these actions can leave lasting scars.

Recognizing and addressing toxic parenting behaviors is crucial. It helps break the cycle and ensures healthier, happier relationships. Plus, it gives everyone a chance to heal and grow. [Read: Toxic family members: Signs and reasons to cut them off for good]

Parents Know Best… Or Do They?

You know how, as kids, we think our parents are all-knowing, infallible beings? It’s a common belief that parents always know what’s best. They guide us, and teach us, and we often look up to them as the ultimate authority.

But let’s have a reality check: sometimes parents’ actions, even if well-intentioned, can be harmful. This is where toxic parenting comes into play. Maybe it’s the constant pressure to be perfect, or the way they use guilt to get their point across. These behaviors can have a negative impact on a child’s emotional health. [Read: Why am I so emotional? Emotional stability & 27 secrets to balance life]

Why do parents engage in toxic behaviors? Often, it’s because of their own upbringing or stress. They might be repeating patterns they learned from their parents, or they’re overwhelmed and don’t realize the harm they’re causing. Understanding this helps us see that while they might not be bad people, their actions can still be toxic.

Common and Uncommon Toxic Parenting Behaviors

We might not immediately realize how these things are toxic parenting, but they can have a significant impact on a child’s development and well-being.

1. Over-Control

Micromanaging every aspect of a child’s life. This might look like deciding what friends they can have, which hobbies they should pursue, and even what they should think or feel.

A typical scenario is a parent choosing all extracurricular activities and pressuring the child to follow a specific career path. This can make the child feel powerless and unable to make decisions on their own.

Over time, the child may struggle with independence and self-esteem. Such behavior is a hallmark of toxic parenting and can stifle the child’s ability to develop a sense of autonomy. [Read: Emotional dependency & 20 signs you’re overly dependent on someone]

2. Emotional Manipulation

Using guilt, fear, or shame to control. A parent might say, “If you really loved me, you would do this,” or, “After all I’ve done for you, this is how you repay me?” This kind of manipulation creates a sense of obligation and fear in the child.

The child learns to associate love with compliance, which can lead to unhealthy relationships in the future. Emotional manipulation is a subtle but pervasive form of toxic parenting that undermines a child’s ability to form their own identity. It can leave deep emotional scars that are hard to heal.

3. Neglect

Emotional or physical neglect can leave a child feeling abandoned and unimportant. This can be as blatant as not providing basic needs or as subtle as not showing interest in the child’s life and feelings.

Neglected children often feel invisible and unworthy of attention or love. A behavior like this is a severe form of toxic parenting that can lead to issues like depression, anxiety, and attachment disorders. [Read: How to deal with a depressed person: Ways that honor them]

Parents might justify their neglect with excuses about being busy or tired, but the impact on the child is profound. The lack of emotional support and engagement can hinder the child’s social and emotional development.

4. Perfectionism

Unrealistically high expectations and constant criticism can make a child feel like they are never good enough. Phrases like, “Why can’t you be more like your sibling?” or, “Is this the best you can do?” can be deeply damaging.

This form of toxic parenting pushes children to strive for unattainable standards, leading to chronic stress and a fear of failure. Children subjected to perfectionism may develop anxiety and low self-esteem, constantly seeking validation.

The relentless pursuit of perfection can overshadow their accomplishments and make them feel perpetually inadequate. Over time, this behavior erodes their confidence and self-worth. [Read: Dating a perfectionist: Things you must know before you date one]

5. Lack of Boundaries

Not respecting the child’s privacy or individuality can include reading their diaries, invading their personal space, or making decisions for them without their consent. Such actions send a message that the child’s autonomy is not valued.

Doing this can lead to feelings of violation and mistrust. Children might struggle to set boundaries in their own relationships, having never learned how to do so at home.

The lack of respect for personal space and decisions can stifle their growth and independence, making it difficult for them to establish their own identity.

6. Overprotection

Sure, it might come from a place of love, but it can seriously mess with kids’ ability to handle challenges and build resilience. If you grew up hearing stuff like, “I can’t let you go to that party; something bad might happen,” you know what we mean.

Overprotection can push kids to lie or sneak out just to get a taste of freedom. This kind of parenting makes kids super fearful and not so great at solving problems. They might struggle with independence and confidence, feeling totally unprepared for the real world.

Remember, we won’t always be there to hold their hand, and they need to learn how to deal with life’s curveballs on their own. [Read: Helicopter parents: What it means, 22 signs & bad effects most don’t realize]

7. Comparisons

Saying things like, “Why can’t you be more like your cousin?” can make the child feel inadequate and unworthy. This toxic parenting behavior fosters a sense of competition and inadequacy.

Children who are frequently compared to others may develop low self-esteem and resentment. They might feel that their unique qualities are not appreciated or valued.

Such comparisons can also strain sibling relationships, creating unnecessary rivalry and tension. Over time, this can damage the child’s self-image and lead to persistent feelings of inferiority.

8. Conditional Love

If you grew up feeling the need to earn your parents’ affection by getting good grades or winning in sports, it’s another toxic parenting behavior.

This makes kids believe they must always achieve something to be loved. It teaches them that their worth is tied to their accomplishments. The constant pressure to meet these conditions can cause chronic stress and anxiety.

They may develop a fear of failure and struggle to accept themselves as they are. The need to constantly perform can be overwhelming and damaging to their self-esteem. [Read: Sense of self: What it is, 36 signs, tips & steps to raise it and feel great]

9. Dismissiveness

Parents who tend to brush off their kids’ feelings with comments like, “You’re just being dramatic,” or, “That doesn’t matter,” are showing a form of toxic parenting. This kind of behavior invalidates a child’s emotions and experiences, making them feel misunderstood and unimportant.

The child might just stop sharing their feelings altogether, leading to emotional suppression that can really mess up the parent-child relationship, creating a wall that blocks open and honest communication.

It doesn’t just stop there—it can also affect the child’s ability to form healthy emotional connections later in life. If you can’t talk about your feelings at home, it’s tough to learn how to do it anywhere else.

10. Authoritarianism

Enforcing strict rules and expecting blind obedience without considering the child’s perspective. Phrases like, “Because I said so,” are common. It is a clear sign of toxic parenting that disregards the child’s individuality and need for autonomy.

Children raised in such environments may become overly compliant or rebellious. They might struggle with decision-making and assertiveness, having never been allowed to express their opinions.

This authoritarian style can stifle creativity and independence, leading to long-term emotional and psychological issues.

11. Criticism

Constantly pointing out a child’s flaws and mistakes. A parent might say, “You’re always messing things up,” or, “Why can’t you do anything right?” This form of toxic parenting can severely damage a child’s self-esteem. [Read: The secrets to master the art of constructive criticism in a relationship]

Persistent criticism makes the child feel like they can never do anything correctly. Over time, this can lead to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt. The child may also become overly critical of themselves and others, perpetuating a cycle of negativity. Such an environment stifles growth and fosters a sense of inadequacy.

12. Blaming

If you ever heard things like, “If you weren’t born, I could’ve been happy,” or, “You’re the reason everything goes wrong,” then you know what blaming feels like. This kind of toxic parenting puts an unfair burden on kids, making them feel guilty, ashamed, and inadequate.

They might grow up thinking they’re the source of all problems and unworthy of love. This mindset can seriously mess with their self-esteem and mental health.

Plus, it can really damage the parent-child relationship, creating a toxic and hostile environment. Blaming kids for a parent’s unhappiness is a heavy load for any child to carry.

13. Instilling Fear

Parents might say, “If you don’t do this, you’ll be in big trouble,” or, “I’ll leave you if you don’t behave.” This type of toxic parenting creates a climate of fear and anxiety. [Read: How to be fearless: Ways to set aside fear & live like a champion]

Children may comply out of fear rather than understanding or respect. This can lead to long-term anxiety and trust issues. The use of fear as a control mechanism can damage the child’s sense of security and self-esteem. It also prevents the development of healthy, respectful relationships.

14. Favoritism

Parents claim they don’t have a favorite, but if one kid is always getting more attention, praise, or resources, it’s pretty obvious. This kind of toxic parenting creates resentment and rivalry among siblings.

Kids who aren’t favored can end up feeling neglected and unworthy, which can lead to long-term emotional scars. Meanwhile, the favored child might feel immense pressure to live up to high expectations, which isn’t exactly a walk in the park either.

These dynamics can strain family relationships and make home life pretty unhealthy for everyone involved.

15. Unpredictability

One day they might be loving and supportive, and the next, they could be distant or angry without explanation. This inconsistency is a form of toxic parenting that leaves children feeling confused and insecure.

They never know what to expect and may become anxious and hyper-vigilant. The unpredictability can erode trust and stability in the parent-child relationship. [Read: How to recognize emotionally unstable people for less drama in life]

Having unpredictable parents can lead to emotional instability and difficulty forming secure attachments. Children need consistent and predictable parenting to feel safe and supported.

16. Isolation

You know those parents who say things like, “I don’t trust anyone else with you,” or, “You don’t need friends”? They’re actually isolating their kids from normal social experiences.

This is a toxic parenting behavior as it can really mess with a child’s ability to develop social skills and make friends. Imagine growing up feeling lonely and disconnected because you weren’t allowed to hang out with your peers.

It’s not just about feeling left out; this isolation can seriously impact emotional and psychological development. Kids who are isolated might struggle with social anxiety and find it hard to form relationships as they get older.

17. Gaslighting

Yep, way before “gaslighting” became a popular term, some parents were already masters at it. Ever had a parent deny something that happened or downplay your feelings to the point where you started doubting your own memory? That’s gaslighting, and it’s a classic toxic parenting move.

It messes with a kid’s sense of reality and self-trust, making them feel confused and insecure. Imagine constantly feeling like you can’t trust your own perceptions and having to rely on your parent’s version of events.

This can lead to serious issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The constant manipulation erodes confidence and makes it tough for kids to become independent and self-assured. [Read: 105 most common gaslighting phrases, techniques & signs to recognize them]

18. Humiliation

Ever had a parent say something like, “Everyone is laughing at you,” or, “You should be embarrassed by what you did”? That’s humiliation, and it’s a pretty harsh form of toxic parenting.

Publicly or privately shaming a child can leave deep scars on their self-esteem. Kids learn to feel ashamed of themselves and their actions, which can lead to chronic feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness.

As a result, they might develop social anxiety and a constant fear of judgment. Humiliating a child not only damages their self-worth but also strains the parent-child relationship, creating a hostile and unloving environment.

19. Overreacting

Responding excessively to minor issues or mistakes. Parents might yell, punish harshly, or dramatize small problems. This type of toxic parenting creates a tense and fearful atmosphere. Children learn to fear making mistakes and may become overly cautious or anxious.

The overreaction can overshadow the actual issue, making it difficult for the child to learn and grow. Eventually, this behavior can lead to chronic stress and fear of failure. It also damages trust and open communication in the parent-child relationship.

20. Discouragement

A parent might say, “You’ll never be good at that,” or, “Why bother trying?” It is another form of toxic parenting that stifles the child’s motivation and self-belief. Children may give up on their passions and dreams, feeling they are not good enough. [Read: I’m not good enough: Why you feel this way & 32 secrets to feel amazing!]

Discouragement can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of confidence in their abilities. This behavior can impact their overall development and success. It creates a negative environment where the child feels unsupported and undervalued.

21. Emotional Unavailability

Parents might be physically there but completely checked out emotionally, offering little warmth or empathy. When parents are emotionally unavailable, it leaves kids feeling neglected and unimportant.

Since parents are our first and sole emotional support system, this absence can lead to attachment issues and difficulty forming relationships later on. Kids might struggle with expressing their emotions and seeking help when they need it. [Read: How to express your feelings: Must-know ideas to speak your mind]

This emotional void can result in emotional numbness and a sense of isolation. The lack of connection can have a severe impact on a child’s mental health and overall well-being.

22. Inflexibility

Some parents are like authoritarian rulers in their own homes, enforcing strict routines and rules without considering their child’s individuality. Being rigid and unwilling to adapt to the child’s changing needs and circumstances can really stifle their growth and adaptability.

Kids in such environments may feel restricted and unable to express themselves, which can be incredibly frustrating. This rigidity can lead to either rebellion or compliance out of fear, rather than genuine understanding.

Without the ability to cope with change and develop resilience, children might struggle when faced with new challenges. The result is a restrictive environment where the child feels trapped and misunderstood.

23. Using the Child as a Confidant

We might not immediately think of this as toxic parenting behavior, but the thing is, sharing adult problems and seeking emotional support from your child can be pretty damaging.

When parents discuss financial issues, relationship problems, or personal struggles with their kids, it places an inappropriate burden on them. [Read: Narcissist parents: What makes one, 55 signs, effects & how to cope with them]

Kids aren’t equipped to handle adult issues and can end up feeling overwhelmed and anxious. This behavior blurs the boundaries between parent and child, leading to role confusion.

It can also negatively impact the child’s emotional development and sense of security. Children need to be protected from adult concerns so they can grow up feeling safe and supported.

The Effects of Toxic Parenting on Children

You might be thinking, “Well, I turned out okay,” but the truth is, toxic parenting can leave deep and lasting impacts on children. These effects can shape their personalities, behaviors, and relationships well into adulthood.

1. Low Self-Esteem

Children raised by toxic parents often struggle with self-worth and confidence. Constant criticism and high expectations can make them feel they are never good enough.

They may internalize negative messages, leading to a persistent belief that they are flawed or inadequate. It can affect their academic and professional achievements, as they might avoid taking risks or pursuing opportunities.

It can also impact their personal relationships, as they might settle for less or tolerate mistreatment. The lack of self-worth can lead to chronic self-doubt and a negative self-image. [Read: Dating someone with low self-esteem: What it’s like for both of you]

2. Anxiety and Depression

Toxic parenting increases the risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Children might feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with the demands placed on them. This can lead to persistent anxiety, characterized by constant worry and fear.

In some cases, the emotional neglect or manipulation experienced can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and sadness, hallmarks of depression. Long-term exposure to such an environment can make these mental health issues more severe and harder to treat.

3. Relationship Issues

Difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships is a common effect of toxic parenting. Children learn about relationships from their parents, and toxic behaviors can distort their understanding of healthy dynamics.

They might struggle with trust, communication, and setting boundaries. For instance, if a parent was emotionally manipulative, the child might expect similar behavior from others or adopt such behaviors themselves.

This can lead to patterns of unhealthy relationships, including dependency, conflict, or avoidance. These issues can result in a cycle of dysfunctional relationships that are hard to break. [Read: 20 steps to fix a toxic relationship & change before it’s too late]

4. Perfectionism

Children of toxic parents might adopt unrealistic standards for themselves, striving for perfection in every aspect of their lives. This is often a response to constant criticism and high expectations.

They may fear making mistakes, believing that their worth depends on their achievements. This can lead to chronic stress and burnout as they push themselves to meet impossible standards.

The pursuit of perfection can overshadow their accomplishments and make it difficult for them to enjoy their successes.

This relentless drive can take a toll on their mental and physical health, leading to issues like anxiety and depression.

5. People-Pleasing

Constantly seeking approval and validation from others is another effect of toxic parenting. Children learn to equate love and acceptance with compliance and achievement. They might go out of their way to please others, often at the expense of their own needs and desires.

Doing this can lead to a loss of identity as they prioritize others’ expectations over their own. People-pleasing can also make them vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation in their relationships.

Over time, the need for external validation can erode their self-esteem and hinder their personal growth and independence. [Read: People pleaser: 21 signs you’re one & how to stop people pleasing]

6. Trust Issues

Difficulty trusting others is a common fallout from toxic parenting. If your parents made you feel that trust could easily be broken or exploited, it’s no wonder you might struggle with opening up.

This can lead to isolating yourself to avoid potential hurt or betrayal. On the flip side, you might become overly dependent on a few trusted individuals, afraid to branch out.

These trust issues can ripple through your social, professional, and personal life, making it tough to form and maintain healthy relationships. The constant fear of being hurt can severely limit your ability to build meaningful connections.

7. Fear of Failure

Paralyzing fear of making mistakes is often rooted in toxic parenting. If you were punished or harshly criticized for your mistakes as a child, you likely associate failure with negative consequences.

It can make you overly cautious and unwilling to take risks, leading you to avoid new opportunities or challenges. As a result, your potential may be stifled, and you could find yourself stuck, unable to move forward in your personal or professional life.

Psychologists often refer to this as a “fixed mindset,” where you believe your abilities are static and unchangeable. Overcoming this involves developing a “growth mindset,” where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning and growth. [Read: Fear of failure and why you shouldn’t be afraid to fail]

8. Emotional Suppression

Toxic parenting can teach children to suppress their emotions, making them believe their feelings are invalid or unimportant. If you learned to hide your emotions to avoid criticism or punishment, you might find it hard to express and understand your own feelings now.

Doing this can lead to emotional numbness or unexpected outbursts as bottled-up feelings eventually need an outlet. It also impacts relationships, making it difficult to communicate your feelings or understand others’. [Read: Emotional numbness: 23 ways you could slip into it & how to snap out]

This behavior can result in mental health issues like depression and anxiety, as you’re unable to process and deal with your emotions healthily. Emotional intelligence theory emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing your emotions for overall well-being.

9. Lack of Independence

Growing up with over-controlling parents can make you feel incapable of making decisions on your own. If you were made to feel incompetent, you might depend heavily on others for guidance and approval.

A lack of independence can hinder your ability to take initiative and pursue your own goals. You might struggle with self-confidence and fear failure, avoiding situations where you have to rely on yourself.

This dynamic can significantly impact your personal and professional development, making it hard to reach your full potential. Developing self-efficacy, the belief in your ability to succeed, is crucial for breaking free from this pattern.

10. Chronic Guilt

If you grew up with toxic parenting, you might carry a deep sense of guilt, too. Feeling responsible for your parents’ emotions and actions can lead to believing you’re at fault for any issues. [Read: Feel guilty all the time? Causes, signs, and ways to stop that nagging feeling]

This chronic guilt can severely affect your self-esteem and mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. You might go out of your way to make up for perceived wrongdoings, often sacrificing your own needs and well-being.

It can result in unhealthy relationships where you’re easily manipulated and taken advantage of. The constant guilt can wear you down, affecting your overall quality of life and happiness.

Breaking the Cycle

Okay, so you read the signs and effects, and came up with a realization: you were a victim of toxic parenting.

Now what? It’s important to know that breaking the cycle is possible and essential for your well-being and future relationships.

1. Self-Awareness

Encouraging parents to reflect on their behaviors and their origins is the first step. Acknowledging toxic parenting patterns requires honest self-reflection and a willingness to change.

Understanding where these behaviors come from—perhaps from their own upbringing or stressful circumstances—can help parents address the root causes. Self-awareness involves recognizing triggers and identifying unhealthy responses. [Read: Am I in an abusive relationship? 66 early signs, effects & ways to get out]

Keeping a journal or discussing these insights with a trusted friend or therapist can be beneficial. This process helps in developing a more mindful approach to parenting.

2. Seeking Help

The importance of therapy and support groups cannot be overstated. Professional help can provide guidance and strategies to overcome toxic parenting habits. Therapists can offer tailored advice and coping mechanisms suited to individual needs.

Support groups allow parents to share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. These resources provide a sense of community and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation. Seeking help is a crucial step in breaking the cycle and fostering healthier family dynamics.

3. Healthy Communication

Tips for improving communication with children include active listening, expressing empathy, and validating their feelings. Open and honest communication builds trust and respect. [Read: 20 powerful communication techniques that will transform your relationship]

Parents should practice listening without interrupting, acknowledging their child’s emotions, and responding with understanding. For example, instead of dismissing a child’s fears, a parent might say, “I understand you’re scared.

Let’s talk about what’s worrying you.” This approach helps children feel heard and valued, reducing the impact of toxic parenting behaviors. Consistent, healthy communication strengthens the parent-child relationship and promotes emotional well-being.

4. Setting Boundaries

Establishing and respecting boundaries for both parents and children is essential. Boundaries create a sense of safety and respect within the family. Parents should clearly communicate their expectations and listen to their children’s needs.

For instance, respecting a child’s privacy by not invading their personal space or reading their journals is crucial. Teaching children to set their own boundaries also helps them develop autonomy and self-respect. Healthy boundaries prevent the overreach of toxic parenting and foster mutual respect. [Read: 25 types, ways & tips to set boundaries with friends without insulting them]

5. Positive Reinforcement

Focusing on strengths and positive behaviors rather than shortcomings can transform the parent-child dynamic. Positive reinforcement involves recognizing and celebrating achievements, no matter how small.

Parents can provide specific praise, such as, “You did a great job on your homework today,” to encourage positive behavior. This approach builds self-esteem and motivates children to continue their good efforts.

Positive reinforcement shifts the focus from criticism to encouragement, reducing the negative impacts of toxic parenting. It creates a supportive environment where children feel appreciated and motivated.

6. Modeling Healthy Behavior

Parents should demonstrate the behaviors they wish to see in their children. Modeling healthy behavior includes managing stress constructively, expressing emotions appropriately, and practicing self-care.

If a parent handles frustration by calmly discussing the issue instead of yelling, children are likely to mimic this approach. This consistency between words and actions teaches children valuable life skills.

Modeling healthy behavior helps in breaking the cycle of toxic parenting. Children learn to adopt these positive behaviors in their own lives. [Read: Emotional immaturity: How to recognize them & help them grow up]

7. Emotional Intelligence

Developing emotional intelligence is key for both parents and children. Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing one’s own emotions, as well as empathizing with others.

Parents can enhance their emotional intelligence through mindfulness practices, such as meditation or reflective journaling. Teaching children to identify and express their emotions helps them navigate their feelings effectively.

For instance, parents can encourage children to use “I feel” statements to communicate their emotions. Cultivating emotional intelligence reduces the likelihood of toxic parenting behaviors and promotes healthier relationships.

8. Consistent Discipline

Implementing consistent and fair discipline strategies is also vital. Consistency in rules and consequences helps children understand expectations and the importance of accountability. [Read: 32 signs of a good father & traits that tell if a man will be an amazing dad!]

Parents should explain the reasons behind the rules and involve children in discussions about appropriate consequences.

This approach fosters a sense of fairness and respect. For example, if a child breaks a rule, a parent might say, “You know the rule about screen time. Let’s talk about why it’s important and what the consequence will be.” Doing this reduces confusion and resentment, mitigating the effects of toxic parenting.

9. Family Therapy

Engaging in family therapy can address underlying issues and improve family dynamics. A therapist can help identify patterns of toxic parenting and provide strategies to change them. [Read: Relationship therapy: 25 clues to know if it’ll help your romance]

Family therapy sessions offer a safe space for open communication and conflict resolution. They help in rebuilding trust and understanding among family members.

This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is involved in the healing process. Family therapy supports lasting change and healthier relationships.

10. Continuous Learning

Parents should commit to continuous learning and growth, too. Parenting is an evolving process that requires adapting to new challenges and information.

Reading books, attending workshops, and joining parenting groups can provide valuable insights and strategies. Staying informed about child development and effective parenting techniques helps in avoiding toxic behaviors. [Read: Black sheep of the family: What it means, 22 signs you’re it & how to deal]

Continuous learning fosters a proactive approach to parenting, ensuring that parents are equipped to support their children’s growth and well-being. It promotes a culture of improvement and resilience within the family.

Break the Cycle of Toxic Parenting

Breaking the cycle of toxic parenting might seem daunting, but change is possible, and it’s never too late to start. Small steps towards healthier behaviors can lead to significant improvements in your relationships and overall well-being. By becoming aware of toxic patterns and actively working to replace them with positive practices, you can create a nurturing environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Take a moment to reflect on your own experiences. If you recognize any signs of toxic parenting in your upbringing or in your current parenting style, know that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

If you’re a parent, take the time to reflect on your actions and their impact on your children. Embrace the journey of growth and improvement.

[Read: I was raised by a stay at home mom and it made my life better]

Your efforts to break the cycle of toxic parenting can lead to a healthier, happier family dynamic, where everyone feels valued, respected, and loved.