5 Signs of a Pushy Parent

All parents want their children to learn and improve, stay ahead of their peers, and achieve certain goals in life. To get their children to do this, parents encourage and motivate them, and support their efforts. However, some parents tend to go overboard and end up becoming pushy. They look at their children as means to achieve their own unfulfilled ambitions. And, instead of being supportive and encouraging, such parents turn into tormentors. Let’s read on to find out if you can also be called a pushy parent.

* You have unreasonable expectations

You set unrealistic goals for your child and want her to achieve them. In fact, not only do you want your child to be a high achiever, you also want her to do that in a manner which satisfies your ‘lofty’ standards. To make your child to fulfil your expectations, you frame strict guidelines and instructions.

* You feel extremely upset by your child’s failure

Once you set goals for your child, you pull all stops to ensure that he achieves them. You provide him with the latest technology, enrol him in extra classes, keep his things in perfect order and so on, to ensure that he does nothing else but just work towards fulfilling your expectations. And, at times when he doesn’t succeed, you feel crushed by disappointment.

* You blame family members for spoiling the child

When your child doesn’t do well, not only do you blame the child, but also tend to blame other members of your family, especially your spouse and grandparents, for being lenient and spoiling the child.

* You do not spare the time to listen to your child

Most children love to communicate with their parents and feel happy in their company. However, you believe in being strict with your child, and do not have the time or the desire to listen to him calmly and address his concerns. So, your child tries to avoid your company or feels edgy when you are around.

* You are emotionally abusive

You believe in yelling, being dominating, making threats, and indulging in name-calling. You also tend to criticise, ridicule or brush aside your child’s fears and concerns, and are reluctant to show your affection except when your child achieves the goal you have set for her. With your attitude, you instil a sense of fear and distrust in your child.