Raised By A 'Peacock Parent?' Here's What To Know

Image: Pexels

9 April 2025

Peacock parenting often describes a style where parents exhibit narcissistic tendencies, such as an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy

Image: Pexels

Like a peacock displaying its feathers, these parents crave attention and validation, often prioritising their own image over their child's emotional needs

Image: Unsplash

Such parents prioritise showcasing their children's achievements and talents on social media, often to feed their own ego and desire for validation

Image: Pexels

These parents tend to focus on their children's achievements like academic success, sports victories, or artistic talents, and use these accomplishments to measure their own self-worth

Image: Pexels

Peacock parents often engage in a form of competitive parenting, where they compare their children's achievements with those of others, fostering a sense of rivalry

Image: Pexels

Peacock parents frequently disregard their children's personal boundaries, using guilt or manipulation to maintain control and keep the focus on themselves

Image: Pexels

This parenting style can create pressure on children to perform and achieve, potentially leading to stress, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem

Image: Pexels

Children of peacock parents may have their feelings dismissed or belittled, with parents gaslighting them by claiming they are "too sensitive" or misremembering events

Image: Pexels

Growing up with a peacock parent can lead to low self-worth, confusion, codependency, or people-pleasing tendencies in children, as their needs are consistently sidelined

Image: Unsplash

These parents rarely apologise or admit fault, even when their actions harm their children, often shifting blame or denying wrongdoing

Image: Pexels

Experts recommend alternative approaches, such as focusing on effort rather than achievement, and prioritising genuine connection and emotional support over social media validation

Image: Pexels

Check More Stories

Image: Pexels

ndtv.com