Messaging in Childhood
Elaine Raif • May 29, 2023
In childhood, we grew up surrounded by “messages” or ideas about ourselves conveyed by our caregivers, teachers, coaches and/or other important adults.
These “messages” played a role in shaping how we saw ourselves and the decisions we would make throughout our lives.
Expressed in explicit or implicit ways, “messaging” in childhood may continue to affect our current thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationships.
Reflect on the following questions:
- Think about rules that were important in your household. What messages did you receive about what was allowed/not allowed?
- What messages did you receive about friendships? Intimate relationships?
- What messages did you receive about money? Career choice?
- What messages did you receive about your body?
As you think about the “messaging” you received in childhood, consider how does this impact your understanding of self, relationships, your decisions about school or career?
Then, reflect on what “messaging” you would have wanted to hear as a child.
If you could go back in time and talk to yourself as a child, what might you say?
Written by: Elaine Raif, ASW#111237
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