How to Deal With a Bad Parent

You can choose who to befriend, but your family is thrust upon you. Your parents may be confused, addicted to substances, violent or just clueless. It is a tough break to grow up with a bad parent, but you can deal with a bad parent by working on yourself and your perception of the world.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Understand that every family has some stress. You may think that you are the only one in the world with a bad parent. There are many children and adults who have to deal with a bad parent.

2. Go to counseling, especially if your family has serious issues. Dealing with violence or alcohol can be too big for you to handle at any age. If you are a minor, ask for help from an adult that you trust and if you are an adult, find a counselor that can help you deal with your traumatic childhood.

3. Manage your stress in a healthy way. There is no reason to believe that you should follow in your parents' footsteps. Instead of adopting their mannerisms or traits, deal with a bad parent by having your own separate values and exercise or another outlet to deal with family stress.

4. Talk to your parents. If the situation you find yourself in is minor enough to deal with in conversation, sit your parents down and tell them about your feelings. Sometimes your parents forget that you are your own person with your own opinions and a good conversation helps.

5. Compromise with your parents. Strike a deal that seems fair to you and helps you meet the restrictions and requirements your parents have set up. If your parents are bad at letting go, or trusting you, then follow the rules until you have gained their trust back.

6. Speak in a calm manner. When dealing with any bad situation with your parents, try to stay calm and refrain from yelling. This is the best way to keep a level head and avoid explosive arguments.