It’s not your child’s job to live up to your expectations. That might sound harsh, but it’s one of the most important truths I’ve had to learn as a parent, especially during the transition home after treatment.
If you’re anything like me, you might be thinking: ‘But I don’t even have that many expectations!’ I used to think that too… I wasn’t asking for straight A’s or a high-powered career path. But the truth is, I had all sorts of hidden expectations: to be respected, to be liked, to have my child appreciate my cooking, my values, and… for them not to use drugs. And when those expectations weren’t met, it hurt.
In this episode, Seth and I unpack how easily our unconscious expectations can shape the energy of our home and our family dynamics. This is especially true when your kid is coming home from treatment and the goal is to build a new, different relationship with them.
Even the expectations handed to us from treatment programs can give a false sense of security, making it feel like everything will go perfectly if the plan is followed. But real life doesn’t work like that.
We explore what our hidden expectations look like, the emotional effect they can have on your teen or young adult, and how you can trade them for something far more meaningful: connection, curiosity, and a new kind of relationship with your teen or young adult.
In this episode on navigating expectations, we cover:

• Why it's so hard to see your own expectations and how they show up when your kid doesn't meet them;
• The emotional impact expectations can have on your child’s sense of acceptance;
• Why bringing your kid home from treatment requires more flexibility and less pressure;
• The difference between boundaries and expectations, and why that distinction matters;
• What parents can do to foster trust and connection during the transition home from treatment;
• How letting go of control can create space for a more honest relationship with your child and healthier family dynamics;
• And more!

Looking for support?
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