Not available May 7? Don’t worry. Register now and we’ll send you the replay link to watch at your convenience.Growing up with parents who don’t or won’t understand ADHD intensifies so many challenges for children, including those who go without a diagnosis until adolescence or adulthood.
Some parents simply don’t recognize ADHD or see it as a “real” condition. As a result, they fail to understand the emotional and academic challenges brought on by it and instead use criticism as an ineffective motivator.
When those kids grow into adults with children of their own, they often encounter a gaping hole of unmet needs that they have filled with negative messaging and low self-esteem.Children of emotionally immature parents — those who were often prioritizing their own needs before their kids’, gaslighting and dismissing them, and generally showing a lack of empathy and validation — experienced similar emotions and long-term effects.
Many of these kids grew up feeling manipulated, misunderstood, and lonely. As adults, they may still feel dismissed and minimized by their parents, making it difficult to heal.Growing up in an unhealthy household can set the stage for lifelong struggles, including problems with mental health, self-esteem, and relationships.