22/04/2025
Research shows a strong link between parents who went through challenging experiences as children — like neglect, abuse, or poverty — and problems that show up later in their family life. These can include children struggling with behaviour, health, school, mental health, or even relationships.
While the statistics show a pattern, they can’t explain why this happens in each case or predict which parents will be able to break the cycle and create a safe, healthy environment for their children. And sometimes, problems still arise in families even when there’s no clear history of hardship in the parents’ past.
Parents who can reflect on their past and understand emotions, intentions, and beliefs — a skill known as mentalisation — are more likely to raise children who feel safe and secure.
It’s about being aware, reflective, and emotionally present—even if your childhood was difficult.
