#310 The Dark Side of ‘Attachment’ Parenting — How to Protect a Child’s Free Will & Psychological Safety

Spela upp

Have you ever worried about whether your parenting methods are building real emotional connection—or unintentionally causing harm?We received a thoughtful question from a listener who shared a heartbreaking personal story: while her mom intended to foster attachment, her methods—like forced "holding time"—ended up destroying trust and psychological safety instead.In this episode, we dive deep into what we do and do not mean when we talk about attachment, emotional safety, and parenting strategies.Attachment parenting is about honoring a child’s free will—not demanding submission. True psychological safety is built through respect, patience, and emotional connection—not control or coercion.We'll clarify why even good parenting philosophies can be twisted if they aren't grounded in emotional intelligence and healthy boundaries.And we’ll share practical ways you can foster true psychological safety in your home while supporting your child’s natural emotional development.If you want to raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids who trust you deeply, don’t miss this important episode.Become a Founding Member of our Extraordinary Parent Mentoring MethodKey Takeaways:Psychological safety is about trust, not forced compliance.Attachment parenting must honor a child’s autonomy and free will.Even good parenting methods can be distorted by emotional wounds.Emotional resilience grows when children feel seen, heard, and safe.Creating emotional safety at home starts with self-awareness as a parent.Chapters:Chapters00:00 Introduction to Attachment Parenting01:32 Clarifying Misunderstandings in Parenting04:23 The Importance of Parenting Skills07:46 Defining Success in Parenting10:41 Understanding Attachment Parenting13:25 The Dangers of Misapplied Parenting Techniques16:38 The Impact of Adoption on Attachment19:21 The Consequences of Control in Parenting22:41 The Role of Freedom in Child Development25:39 The Misconception of Holding Time29:11 The Impact of Sleep Training on Children32:46 Respecting Free Will in Parenting35:54 The Concept of Holding Time40:41 Understanding Boundaries and Safety45:08 Preparing Children for Adulthood49:35 The Lifelong Mentor-Mentee Relationship54:55 Building a Legacy of Good ParentingRESOURCES:Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.Become a Founding Member of our Extraordinary Parent Mentoring MethodRachel’s ⁠⁠Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms⁠⁠Greg's ⁠⁠Recommended Reading List for Parents & Youth⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠@worldschoolfamily⁠ or ⁠@greg.denning⁠Get Rachel's ⁠⁠Family Systems & Charts⁠⁠Join the ⁠⁠28-Day Challenge⁠⁠ for MomsJoin the Family Life Coaching Workshop Series for busy momsJoin Greg’s 7-Day Challenge JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE! Join the Formidable Family Man Masterclass and TribeGather with us at the ⁠World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort⁠ in PortugalRead our reviews here: https://podcast.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/reviews/