Every parent wants a strong, lasting bond with their child—but many unknowingly damage that bond through careless words or emotional neglect. Psychologists warn that focusing too much on a girl’s appearance can lead to insecurity, while shaming children for crying teaches them to bottle emotions instead of coping with them.

Some parents believe providing food and clothes is enough, yet emotional absence leaves children feeling unloved and obligated, not connected. Emotionally neglectful or overly critical parents may wonder why their adult children are distant, not realizing they pushed them away.