How to Trust Parents

As babies, we are totally reliant on our parents for everything from food and shelter to love and physical contact. As we grow, we become more independent, yet still must trust our parents for most of our well-being. That trust is sometimes compromised when we believe that our parents let us down. Healthy families learn to work things out and build mutual trust.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Believe that your parents have your best interest in mind. If you start from that premise, you can trust that they are not out to hurt you. Children who know their parents love them usually end up being more independent.

2. Forgive your parents for their mistakes. Parents are human and are not always right. They do not have to lose all your trust because of a mistake. Sometimes single parents especially will overcompensate for their lack of support and do things that you may question.

3. Be open and honest with your parents. Children who lie and are not trustworthy will not trust others. Mutual trust is the goal of a healthy family. You must give what you expect as to get in the relationship.

4. Set boundaries if your mother or father has broken your trust. You may have to refrain from telling them your secrets, but you can still show up for holiday dinners. You may have to limit the amount of contact you have if your parents tend to berate you or try to bring you down. Trust your instincts about these limits, and reserve a limited amount of trust for them.