It's not uncommon for parents or guardians to think they know what's going on in their children's lives, even when they might not have a complete understanding of the situation. This behavior often stems from a combination of factors:
Protective Instinct: Parents naturally have a protective instinct towards their children and may try to shield them from stress and hardships. When they hear their child express negative emotions like stress, they might react with disbelief or denial, assuming that there shouldn't be any reason for their child to feel that way.
Generation Gap: There can be a generation gap between parents and their children, which may lead to differences in how they perceive and respond to stressors. What may seem stressful to you might not be immediately apparent to your parents due to differences in life experiences, expectations, and priorities.
Lack of Communication: Sometimes, parents might not be fully aware of the challenges and stressors their children are facing because of limited communication. Children might hesitate to share certain aspects of their lives with their parents due to fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or invalidation.
Unrealistic Expectations: Parents may have certain expectations for their children, and when their children express stress or difficulties, it might challenge these expectations. As a result, they might respond with disbelief or dismissiveness.
Parental Concern: On the other hand, parents might express disbelief about stress to downplay the situation to reassure you and protect your well-being. They might not want to exacerbate your feelings of stress by acknowledging the full extent of the challenges.
To improve understanding and communication between you and your parents, consider the following:
Open Communication: Try to have an open and honest conversation with your parents about your feelings and the stressors you are facing. Let them know that you value their support and understanding.
Be Patient: Understand that it might take time for your parents to fully comprehend your experiences and emotions. Be patient and willing to explain your perspective.
Seek Support from Others: If you find it challenging to communicate with your parents, consider seeking support from other trusted individuals, such as friends, relatives, or counselors.
Educate Them: Help your parents understand the pressures and challenges faced by your generation. This can bridge the generation gap and foster empathy.
Remember, it's normal to have differences with your parents, but maintaining open and respectful communication can lead to better understanding and support. If the stress you're experiencing becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation.