LibraryScenariosWhen your child's anger at an absent parent lands on you
Scenario

When your child's anger at an absent parent lands on you

My 8-year-old son hits me when he is angry and I know it is because he cannot hit his dad who left but I am the one with the bruises.

Hypatia
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The present parent becomes the emotional punching bag for rage that rightfully belongs elsewhere.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Single Parenting?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.