How To Deal With Unsupportive Parents In College
Having unsupportive parents in college can be a difficult experience to navigate. College is a pivotal time in life and it can be hard to know how to handle the situation when you feel your parents are being unsupportive. But there are some steps you can take to help manage the relationship and create a more positive experience. The first step to dealing with unsupportive parents in college is to identify the source of their lack of support. It can be helpful to reflect on the situation and think about why your parents may be acting this way. Are they worried about your safety or success? Do they have unrealistic expectations for you? Understanding the underlying cause of their behavior can help you address the issue more effectively. Once you have identified the source of their behavior, it can be helpful to set boundaries. Establishing limits can help you communicate your expectations and make sure your needs are being met. For example, if your parents tend to be overly critical, you can let them know that you don’t need their approval or advice and that you’d prefer they focus on offering encouragement instead. It’s important to be firm but respectful when setting boundaries. The next step is to focus on what you can control. This means taking responsibility for your own decisions and actions. You may not be able to change your parents’ behavior, but you can take charge of your own life. Make sure to stay focused on your goals and keep working towards them despite any opposition. Another way to deal with unsupportive parents in college is to surround yourself with positive people. Having a strong support system can be invaluable when you’re feeling discouraged. Make sure to reach out to friends, family members, and mentors who can provide you with the encouragement and guidance you need. Finally, it’s important to take time for self–care. College can be an incredibly stressful time, and it’s essential to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. Find activities that bring you joy, such as reading, exercising, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself will help you stay grounded and better able to handle the situation. Dealing with unsupportive parents in college can be difficult, but it’s possible to manage the situation and create a more positive experience. Take the time to identify the source of the behavior, set boundaries, focus on what you can control, surround yourself with positive people, and practice self–care. Doing these things can help you navigate the situation and better enjoy your college experience.
For another perspective, we asked Judge Josh at Outlaw Student the same question — here’s what he said: https://www.outlawstudent.com/2010/07/unsupportive-parents/