Psychologist Valentina Telhaj spoke on the show News24 Weekend that many of the problems that parents face are reflected in their children. "A study has shown that when a mother is depressed, this is also reflected in the child's brain development. The predisposition to pass problems from parents to children is high, about 30-40%," she said.
Telhaj underlined the importance of changing parenting models. “One of the most harmful models is: ‘sit down, teach, don’t do this, don’t do that’. It’s better to invite children to talk and ask: ‘What are your priorities? What do you think will happen at school tomorrow if you don’t finish your homework?’”
She added that every child has different learning tendencies and patterns, and ongoing support is one of the most effective ways to help children develop. “Parents should not compare children to their peers. Studies show that comparisons are harmful,” Telhaj said.
Psychology also warned about the long-term effects of abuse: "All the problems that parents have are reflected in children. A study showed that when a mother is depressed, this affects the development of the children's brain. The predisposition to pass problems from parents to children is high, about 30-40%. Parents need to change their behavior model. One of the worst models is: "Sit down, learn, don't do this, don't do that." It is better to invite children to talk and ask them: "What are your priorities? If I don't do my homework, what will happen tomorrow at school?” Children have different tendencies and ways of learning. One of the most effective methods is support and assistance to help them stay on top of their homework. Parents should not compare their children with their peers. All studies show that comparisons are harmful. Childhood sexual abuse, no matter how well it is treated, cannot be completely treated. One of the most extreme forms is abuse in early childhood and during puberty. Psychological violence is often more severe than physical violence, as is neglect,” she said.
Telhaj concluded by emphasizing that support, communication, and a caring parental approach are key to the healthy development of children.
