As parents, we want our children to be happy and excel in their lives, however, parental aspirations may not align with the child's definitions of these ideals. It's crucial to recognize that each child is an individual, not an extension or reflection of parental expectations. Certain parental experiences, such as when a child struggles in areas that come easily to the parent, makes different life choices, or befriend individuals perceived as negative influences, might prompt parental pressures for different outcomes. However, imposing such pressures, regardless of intentions, can be detrimental to the child's well-being and strain the parent-child relationship.

Parental pressure, encompassing academic performance, extracurricular activities, social standards, appearance, friendships, and romantic relationships, can significantly impact a child's mental health. Research has shown that familial pressure can be a substantial stressor affecting teenagers' mental well-being. Two primary forms of parental pressure exist: direct (involving force or complaints) and indirect (using guilt or reminding of rigid expectations).

The mental health effects of parental pressure
Excessive or inappropriate parental pressure can lead to various mental health consequences for children. Studies indicate that children subjected to verbal criticism or humiliation by parents might experience depression, anger issues, aggression, delinquency, relationship difficulties, and challenges in maintaining self-esteem. Verbal criticism may also lead to negative self-talk and withdrawal, impacting the parent-child bond.
Pressure related to weight or appearance from family members may elevate the risk of eating disorders, particularly among adolescents. Furthermore, studies suggest that authoritarian parenting styles might lead to poorer academic performance and reduced resilience in children.
Parents may resort to pressuring their children due to personal experiences, such as distant or negligent parenting in their upbringing, or feelings of guilt arising from significant life disruptions like moves or divorces. Despite good intentions to see their children succeed and thrive, parents might unintentionally exert excessive pressure.

How to encourage kids without pressuring them?
Encouraging children without pressuring them involves offering more praise than criticism, focusing on health rather than appearance, allowing children to solve their problems, establishing rules collaboratively, and validating their emotions. Avoiding criticisms and embracing praise, concentrating on health rather than physical appearance, permitting children to handle their challenges, setting rules cooperatively, and acknowledging their feelings can foster a healthier and more supportive parent-child dynamic.