It's Been a Minute The fear & shame of modern parenting
Nov 17, 2025
Cynthia Wang, a Clinical Professor at Northwestern University's Kellogg School, and Karen Leick, author of 'Parents, Media and Panic Through the Years,' explore the intricate fears and shames that shape modern parenting. They discuss how parental identity intertwines with child success, creating pressure-filled environments. The conversation dives into historical media panics affecting mothers, and how these narratives influence parenting styles. Finally, they share insights on discerning real vs. manipulative fears, urging parents to engage and communicate with their children.
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Child As Extension Of Self
- Parents often view their child as an extension of themselves and tie self-worth to the child's success or failure.
- Cynthia Wang explains this parental identity drives intense pressure and decision-making around kids.
Fear Shapes Parenting Styles
- Fear produces distinct parenting styles like perfectionism and helicoptering that attempt to manage parental emotions more than child outcomes.
- Cynthia Wang says these styles aim to regain control amid uncertainty but can harm children.
Pause Before Removing Threats
- Pause and self-reflect when you feel fear driving parenting decisions before acting to remove an object of fear.
- Cynthia Wang recommends unpacking emotions rather than simply eliminating perceived threats.