Child Quote by Susan Forward
““When a child is subjected to verbal attacks, she sees it not as something being done to her but as something she has caused by her own failings. Because children cannot conceive that their all-powerful godlike parents can do anything wrong, they believe what their parents say. The parent's negative opinion becomes the fact on which the child bases her self-image. If the messages the child gets about herself are primarily positive, her self-image will be healthy. But for many children, the positive messages are constantly being canceled out by negative ones.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Toxic Parents” by Susan Forward, 2008
Children internalize parental criticism, shaping self‑image; positive reinforcement is essential for healthy self‑esteem.
In simple terms: Positive messages shape self‑image.
Key Takeaway
Provide consistent positive feedback to children.
Themes
parenting
self‑esteem
psychology
Mood
cautious
supportive
Type
educational
advice
When to use this quote
- education
- parenting workshops
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
attachment theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can parents balance honesty with positivity?
- What strategies help children rebuild self‑image after criticism?
A Different Perspective
Positive feedback may be insufficient without addressing underlying trauma.
