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Children Quote by Alice Miller

“It is precisely because a child's feelings are so strong that they cannot be repressed without serious consequences. The stronger a prisoner is, the thicker the prison walls have to be, which impede or completely prevent later emotional growth.” quote by Alice Miller
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“It is precisely because a child's feelings are so strong that they cannot be repressed without serious consequences. The stronger a prisoner is, the thicker the prison walls have to be, which impede or completely prevent later emotional growth.”

Alice Miller

About This Quote

Source Book: The Drama of the Gifted Child, 1979

Repressed strong emotions in children create psychological prisons that hinder later emotional development.

In simple terms: Repressed emotions imprison growth.

Key Takeaway

Allow emotions to be expressed safely.

Themes

emotional health childhood trauma psychological imprisonment growth

Mood

empathetic serious

Type

therapeutic educational

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • parenting
  • education
  • support groups

Key Concepts

psychology developmental theory trauma emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we safely release repressed feelings?
  • What support helps children process strong emotions?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on repression may ignore resilience.

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