How to Deal With Mean Parents

Parenting is a tough job that does not come with an instruction manual, so parents will make mistakes. However, that doesn't mean thay have a right to be harsh or inconsiderate. Dealing with mean parents takes patience and perspective.

Instructions

1. Analyze your own behavior. While the parent's actions are not necessarily the child's fault, the child can examine how his actions affect his parents. If you are acting irresponsibly or combative, this can alter the parent's mood. Remember you cannot control anyone's actions but your own.

2. Discuss the situation with your parents. They may not realize they are being mean. Make the conversation cordial and conciliatory, confrontational.

3. Realize that your parent's actions have nothing do to with you. They could be having a difficult time at work or in their marriage. Look at what is going on in their lives. If they are involved in a crisis, just give them some space.

4. Notice how they treat other friends and family. If they treat everyone like this, it just may be an overall personality issue or some deeper problem. If they treat everyone else with respect, it may have something to do specifically with your relationship with them.

5. Contact a counselor or another trusted person for advice or for someone to listen to you objectively. Telling someone about the problems and issues can give you another perspective and, hopefully, some answers to the problem. Ask your parents if they want to participate. If they reject the offer, then continue talking to the counselor or confidante about the problem.

Tips & Warnings

• If there is ever any physical abuse, tell the authorities or someone you trust.