Can one determine whether someone is a good parent merely by performance? Can a good parent be found through a competition? Never. At times, even we ourselves may fail to recognize that we are good parents. Most of us are people who, for many reasons, fail in parenting at least occasionally. Personal struggles and mental stress can also lead to such failure. Even so, experts say that if certain qualities apply to you, you are indeed a good parent.
The sense of security your children feel in your presence
If, at any age, your children feel secure when they see you – if your presence, words, nearness, and counsel bring them comfort – then you are indeed a good parent. An article published in the Journal of Family Psychology in 2018 stated that children who feel secure in the presence of their parents experience lower levels of anxiety.
The habit of apologizing when wrong
Do not think that only children must apologize to parents. Parents too can apologize to their children. As human beings, they too can make mistakes – perhaps speaking harshly or behaving inappropriately. If you are someone who can say “sorry” to your children when needed, then you are a good parent. A 2019 study from the University of Missouri states that children who see apologizing parents learn forgiveness and experience emotional security.
Allowing children to express their emotions
Do you allow your children space to express their emotions openly? Or do you suppress their feelings through fear, scolding, or punishment? Parents who encourage the expression of emotion rather than suppressing it are good parents.
Self-evaluation
If you occasionally ask yourself, “Am I a good father or mother?” – and even ask this question to your children – then you are a good parent. It shows your willingness to examine your own attitudes. Only those who are excessively overconfident.
