Feb 17 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Emotional intelligence and a support network: two keys to dealing with parental 'burnout'

The article discusses the significance of emotional intelligence and support networks in managing parental burnout, which arises from the pressures of parenting without adequate support.

The article highlights the rising concern of parental burnout, which has been increasingly recognized as a significant issue for parents juggling the demands of work and child-rearing without sufficient support. This burnout is characterized by emotional exhaustion, feelings of inadequacy, and a sense of being overwhelmed in parenting. It was conceptualized in 2018 by researchers from the University of Leuven in Belgium, identifying the detrimental effects on parents' mental health when faced with high demands and chronic stress without appropriate backing.

Psychologist Jorge Manjarré emphasizes that the conditions under which many parents operate contribute significantly to this phenomenon, suggesting that emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in mitigating its effects. By developing emotional intelligence—understanding and managing one's emotions as well as the emotions of others—parents can better navigate relationships with their children and cope with stressors in a healthier way.

Additionally, establishing a strong support network is vital for parents to combat feelings of isolation and exhaustion. The article suggests that parents who create connections with others, whether through family, friends, or community support groups, are better equipped to manage the day-to-day challenges of parenting. Addressing parental burnout is essential not just for the well-being of the parents themselves, but also for the emotional and physical health of their children, highlighting the importance of proactive strategies in managing this modern parenting challenge.

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