International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

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Strong for the Child, Silent for the Self

Author(s) Ms. Resham Arora
Country India
Abstract Parents and educators often wear a brave mask of strength in front of children, hiding their own struggles and sorrows. This paper examines the phenomenon encapsulated by the phrase “strong for the child, silent for the self,” where caregivers suppress their personal pain to protect or support their children. A comprehensive literature review reveals that such emotional self-silencing, although well-intentioned, can have harmful effects on caregiver well-being and even on the child’s emotional development. Studies have shown that parents who hide negative emotions experience less authenticity, poorer mental health, and strained parent-child interactions. Indian research highlights cultural norms that pressure mothers to suffer in silence due to stigma and idealised parenting roles. Through heartfelt narratives and evidence-based analysis, this paper discusses the emotional toll of being “strong and silent,” and offers suggestions for healthier emotional expression and support. The aim is to resonate with parents and educators, validating their hidden struggles while encouraging a shift towards openness, self-care, and compassion for the benefit of both child and self.
Keywords Parental Emotional Suppression , Self-Silencing , Emotional Labour , Parent-Child Relationship , Caregiver Well-being , Educator Stress , Burnout , Teacher
Field Sociology > Philosophy / Psychology / Religion
Published In Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On 2025-12-31
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.65442

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