"Parent Shrinks"

Hi Donna,

I think this is an interesting idea and have suggested that this be a discussion topic at the next PBPeople meeting which is being held on 30th January 2013. In the meantime, I've suggested people have a look at your post and feedback - just replied to an email to Di and mentioned it. For me, I need to think a bit more as my gut reaction is to say that children are not responsible for the behaviour of parents - and not all parents have the ability to respond to children's needs. And where does choice, control and time limit exist for children? I will value being able to discuss and problem solve with others - thank you

I am also looking forward to have this discussion. A lot my work in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services is working with families and all too often, the referred child can feel/or made to feel responsible for the adults behaviour. This does not mean that children cant learn to be responsible for their own behaviour and learn to be more mindful. However I believe, they can only be responsible for their own behaviour not for their parents. I think there are strategies children can learn to recognise the warning signs and then use strategies not to escalate an already difficult situation.
These are just my initial thoughts
Melanie

I also look forward to the discussion but initial thoughts are that I have major early warning signs about this for the reasons others have said before me. I agree there are valuable indicators children may have about an unsafe situation at home but for me that is about recognising early warning signs and then developing immediate protective interruptions to keep self actually safe, longer term protective interruption e.g. using network to get help for self and possibly parent/s.