The relationship between a father and son plays a key role in the development of identity
The relationship between a father and son plays a key role in the development of the identity, emotional stability and social skills of a young boy. A quality relationship with a father can significantly affect the way in which a child perceives himself, other people and the world around him. Through this process, children learn how to handle challenges, how to build self-esteem and how to develop a sense of self-worth. There are several aspects that explain the importance of this relationship from the perspective of emotional and psychological development.
Firstly, fathers often represent the first role model for their sons. Children learn by observation, and the way in which fathers communicate, solve problems and express emotions provides a role model that children will probably adopt. A quality relationship with a child allows the child to see positive examples of strength, such as responsibility, compassion, courage and self-discipline. These role models help children develop a healthy sense of identity, guiding them towards a healthy development of self-respect and self-esteem.
The second key aspect is emotional security. Children who have a supportive and positive relationship with their father feel more secure and loving. This security enables them to explore the world with confidence, knowing that they have the emotional support they need. Emotional support from a father can help a child cope with stress and challenges, because he knows that he is not alone and that he has someone to turn to in difficult times. This kind of security also promotes the development of emotional intelligence, enabling the child to better recognize and express their emotions.
Thirdly, the quality of the relationship with the father can have a long-term impact on the relationship that the child develops in adulthood. If a child grows up with a positive image of the father, it is more likely that they will develop healthy relationships with others, whether these are friendships, romantic relationships or professional relationships. They will learn to value communication, respect and trust, which are key elements of any successful relationship. On the other hand, a lack of quality relationship or negative experiences with men can lead to problems with trust, fear of closeness or difficulties in setting boundaries.
Furthermore, the father plays a key role in the socialization of the son. Through shared activities, conversations and experiences, fathers can transmit the values, norms and expectations of society. Through play and conversation, fathers can help children develop social skills such as cooperation, teamwork and conflict resolution. These skills are key to success in social interactions and life challenges.
The relationship with one’s child plays a key role in shaping the son’s perception of masculinity and the way he expresses himself. Fathers are often the first role models for boys, and the way they treat their sons can have a significant impact on their sense of self-worth and identity. If the father does not express enough praise, support or recognition, the son may develop the feeling that he is not good enough, which can have long-term consequences for his self-perception and emotional well-being.
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- Understanding masculinity: The father is often the first figure in a child’s life who defines what it means to be a man. Through modeling and interaction with the child, the son learns how to handle responsibilities, how to express emotions and how to assert himself in different situations. If a father models toxic behavior, such as emotional coldness, aggressiveness, or failure to express emotions, he can internalize such behaviors as the norm.
- Self-esteem and self-worth: Praise and acknowledgement from a father has a significant impact on a child’s self-esteem. If a father rarely expresses praise or shows love, a child may develop feelings of insecurity and doubt in his or her own abilities. Such a lack of affirmation can lead him to constantly feel as if he is not good enough, which can lead to a constant search for approval and setting unrealistic standards for himself.
Expressing oneself
- Emotional openness: Fathers who are emotionally present and express their feelings help their sons realize that it’s okay to be vulnerable and express their emotions. If the father shows that emotions are something to be hidden or ignored, the child can learn to repress his feelings, which can lead to emotional immaturity and problems expressing feelings in adulthood.
- Building identity: Through interaction with others, children learn about their strengths, talents and interests. Fathers who encourage exploration, creativity and self-expression help children develop an authentic sense of self. On the other hand, fathers who are critical, controlling or demanding can limit the son’s ability to develop his own identity, forcing him to conform to what the father expects or desires.
Exit from the circle of feeling that we are not good enough
- Recognizing emotions: The first step is to be aware of the problem. The person needs to recognize that the feelings of low self-esteem and insecurity are a consequence of childhood and relationships with parents, and not a negative reflection of their innate abilities or self-worth.
- Accepting emotions: It is important to recognize and accept your feelings, without judgment. This includes recognizing pain, anger, or sadness due to a lack of praise and recognition from your father. By accepting these emotions, the person can begin to work on their healing.
- Developing a positive inner voice: Through therapy or self-reflection, it is possible to develop a more positive inner voice. Instead of constantly criticizing themselves, they can learn how to give themselves the support and recognition that they may not have received from their father.
- Building self-esteem: Setting realistic goals and recognizing achievements can help build self-esteem. Every small success can reinforce a sense of self-worth and help a person feel more confident and secure.
- Talking and support: Talking to friends, partners or therapists about feelings can be extremely helpful. Support from others can provide perspective and encouragement, helping a person to see their worth beyond their own criticism or lack of acknowledgement.
- Apologizing and feeling liberated: Sometimes you need to apologize to someone for your mistakes, not because of them, but for the emotional release that comes with it. Apologizing can help you feel liberated from negative emotions and enable you to move forward.
*Key words: musculoskeletal, relationship with the eye, relationship between a father and son, somatic experiencing therapy, psychotherapist zagreb, gestalt therapy
*Photo: GettyImages
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*Za firme: Kreativni Direktor
