There's a reason "gentle parenting" has become synonymous in some circles—and on social media—with never ever telling a child "no," even in the most extreme circumstances. But where did "gentle parenting" begin, what does the research really say about it, and what can it actually offer parents in the way of making their lives easier?

Amy and Margaret discuss:

The original definition of "gentle parenting"—and how it leaves the door open for broad interpretations
What research has actually shown about the effects of gentle parenting—and how those who consider themselves gentle parents are faring
What the disagreements surrounding gentle parenting tells us about parenting in the modern world

Here are links to some of the resources mentioned in the episode:

Jessica Winter for the New Yorker: The Harsh Realm of 'Gentle Parenting'
Kathryn Watson for Oprah Daily: The Truth About Gentle Parenting
Annie Pezalla for The Conversation: Gentle parenting can be really hard on parents, new research suggests
Anne E. Pezalla, et. al for the Public Library of Science Journal: “Trying to remain calm…but I do reach my limit sometimes”: An exploration of the meaning of gentle parenting
Sarah Shemkus for the Boston Globe: ‘I’m hanging on for dear life.’ The parenting style pushing parents to the brink.

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What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson.

mom friends, funny moms, parenting advice, parenting experts, parenting tips, mothers, families, parenting skills, parenting strategies, parenting styles, busy moms, self-help for moms, manage kid’s behavior, teenager, toddler, baby, tween, child development, family activities, family fun, parent child relationship, decluttering, kid-friendly, invisible workload, default parent, gentle parenting, permissive parenting

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