Is Relaxed Parenting the Healthiest Way to Go? Lighten Up with Expert Dr. Emily Edlynn

Imperfect Love

No matter your age, gender, socioeconomic status, or other factors, parenting is no easy task. Yet we often expect ourselves to be the ideal, stress-free parents who know how to do it all easily and perfectly. Contrary to the images we see on social media and in the fairytale landscapes in our minds, parenting can be one of life’s most challenging journeys. And, all too often, just when we think we have things under control, a new life stage or situation crops up to remind us that nothing in life is perfect—especially the ups and downs of parenting. Is it possible that one of the greatest secrets of parenting is the art of relaxing, finding autonomy, and diminishing anxiety? 

Join Dr. Carla and Stanford-trained clinical psychologist, parenting expert, and author, Dr. Emily Edlynn for a heartfelt discussion focused on learning to parent with grace, joy, and imperfection. Topics explored include attachment theory, secure attachment, attunement, self-awareness, stress, anxiety, self-determination, and the power of building autonomy, competency, and relatedness. Please note that this episode contains sensitive material (e.g., a parent’s cancer diagnosis); listener discretion is advised. Resources are listed in the show notes.

Get the help you need: 

https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline

https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services.html

https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/supporting-parents.html

Books by Dr. Carla Manly:

Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly

Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend 

Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond

The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships

Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:

Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.carlamariemanly8543

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly

Book by Dr. Emily Edlynn:

Autonomy-Supportive Parenting: Reduce Parental Burnout and Raise Competent, Confident Children

Connect with Dr. Emily Edlynn:

Website: https://www.emilyedlynnphd.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremilyedlynn

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrEmilyEdlynn 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrEmilyEdlynn

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-edlynn-phd-0610072

Podcast: https://offtheclockpsych.com

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada