#310 The Dark Side of ‘Attachment’ Parenting — How to Protect a Child’s Free Will & Psychological Safety
Have you ever worried about whether your parenting methods are building real emotional connection—or unintentionally causing harm?
We received a thoughtful question from a listener who shared a heartbreaking personal story: while her mom intended to foster attachment, her methods—like forced "holding time"—ended up destroying trust and psychological safety instead.
In this episode, we dive deep into what we do and do not mean when we talk about attachment, emotional safety, and parenting strategies.
Attachment parenting is about honoring a child’s free will—not demanding submission. True psychological safety is built through respect, patience, and emotional connection—not control or coercion.
We'll clarify why even good parenting philosophies can be twisted if they aren't grounded in emotional intelligence and healthy boundaries.
And we’ll share practical ways you can foster true psychological safety in your home while supporting your child’s natural emotional development.
If you want to raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids who trust you deeply, don’t miss this important episode.
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Key Takeaways:
Psychological safety is about trust, not forced compliance.
Attachment parenting must honor a child’s autonomy and free will.
Even good parenting methods can be distorted by emotional wounds.
Emotional resilience grows when children feel seen, heard, and safe.
Creating emotional safety at home starts with self-awareness as a parent.
Chapters:
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Attachment Parenting
01:32 Clarifying Misunderstandings in Parenting
04:23 The Importance of Parenting Skills
07:46 Defining Success in Parenting
10:41 Understanding Attachment Parenting
13:25 The Dangers of Misapplied Parenting Techniques
16:38 The Impact of Adoption on Attachment
19:21 The Consequences of Control in Parenting
22:41 The Role of Freedom in Child Development
25:39 The Misconception of Holding Time
29:11 The Impact of Sleep Training on Children
32:46 Respecting Free Will in Parenting
35:54 The Concept of Holding Time
40:41 Understanding Boundaries and Safety
45:08 Preparing Children for Adulthood
49:35 The Lifelong Mentor-Mentee Relationship
54:55 Building a Legacy of Good Parenting
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