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The father who raises a son to have a profession he once…

“The father who raises a son to have a profession he once dreamed of, and the mother who uses her daughter as the adult companion her husband is not; the parents who urge their children into accomplishments as status symbols-all these and many more are ways of subordinating a child's authentic self…” quote by Gloria Steinem
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“The father who raises a son to have a profession he once dreamed of, and the mother who uses her daughter as the adult companion her husband is not; the parents who urge their children into accomplishments as status symbols-all these and many more are ways of subordinating a child's authentic self to a parent s needs.”

Gloria Steinem

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Pressuring children to fulfill parental ambitions suppresses their true identity and autonomy.

In simple terms: Parents should respect a child’s own dreams.

Key Takeaway

Support children’s authentic choices.

Themes

parenting identity autonomy

Mood

concerned hopeful

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • school counseling
  • family discussions
  • career guidance

Key Concepts

psychology family dynamics social expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can parents balance guidance with freedom?
  • What are the effects of imposing expectations?
A Different Perspective

Parents may fear loss of control or status.

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