161. How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal and Lauren Reitsema]

Blended Family Breakthrough

Kids and adults experienced losses in their journey from first family to blended family life.

Of course, we all want to protect our kids, but the reality is those previous losses can place each of us at risk of developing relational dysfunction.
This certainly isn't what any caring parent wants to hear…
…but it's critical for all of us to be aware of how we can inadvertently slide into unhealthy roles with our kids. Sometimes well meaning, but misplaced boundaries can set the stage for relational dysfunction.
One type of dysfunctional result has a name: Parentification.
Whether you've heard about Parentification before or you have no idea what we're talking about, you'll want to pay attention to today's essential discussion with our expert guests.
Ron Deal and Lauren Reitsema are joining us in this episode to talk about what Parentification actually is, the ramifications of this dysfunction, and how to protect your kids by preserving their childhood.
This is an informative conversation with deep insight that will help you identify and define healthy parent/child roles and establish appropriate boundaries in your home.
You'll Discover:

• What "Parentification" is and what it's not
• The negative impact of Parentification for kids now and into their future
• Practical ways to safeguard your kids from the burdens of Parentification
• What to do if Parentification is going on in your kids' other home
• What healthy roles and appropriate boundaries look like for a blended family

Resources from this Episode:

• Book: In Their Shoes by Lauren Reitsema
• Book: Building Love Together in Blended Families by Ron Deal & Gary Chapman
• Episode 99: 3 Tips to Help You Move Beyond Painful Guilt and Regret

Ready for some extra support?

We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home. Schedule your free call here: https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession
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