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Emotions Quote by Lili Wilkinson

“Parents aren't supposed to cry. They're not supposed to have emotions, apart from anger, disappointment and pride. And fatigue. But they're never supposed to cry. It seems like such a personal, private thing.” quote by Lili Wilkinson
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““Parents aren't supposed to cry. They're not supposed to have emotions, apart from anger, disappointment and pride. And fatigue. But they're never supposed to cry. It seems like such a personal, private thing.””

Lili Wilkinson

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Edge of Everything, 2015

Parents are expected to suppress emotions, creating a private, stigmatized view of crying and vulnerability.

In simple terms: Parents are told not to show feelings.

Key Takeaway

Encourage emotional openness in parenting.

Themes

parenting emotions stigma vulnerability family mental health

Mood

empathetic reflective

Type

social psychological

When to use this quote

  • family counseling
  • parent‑child conversations
  • mental health education

Key Concepts

psychology social expectations gender norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why are parents discouraged from showing vulnerability?
  • How does this affect children’s emotional development?
A Different Perspective

Cultural expectations may limit authentic emotional expression, harming well‑being.

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