How To Handle Preconceived Opinions With Friends and Family

As parents and caregivers, we can sometimes find ourselves in difficult conversations with our friends and family members who hold preconceived opinions about us, our children, or our parenting styles. These conversations can be challenging and uncomfortable, but they are also opportunities for growth and open-mindedness. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies for handling preconceived opinions with friends and family while maintaining positive relationships.

Listen actively and calmly

When someone shares their preconceived notion about you or your family, it's important to listen actively and calmly. Allow them to express their opinions and try to understand where they are coming from. Try to refrain from interrupting or getting defensive, as this can escalate the conversation and make it more difficult to reach a resolution.

Share your perspective

Once you have listened to the other person's opinion, it's important to share your own perspective. Be honest about your feelings and your experiences. Use "I" statements instead of "you" statements, as this can make the conversation more productive and less confrontational. For example, instead of saying "You're wrong about me," try saying "From my perspective, I disagree because…"

Find common ground

Finding common ground can help to bridge the divide between different perspectives. Look for ways in which you and the other person can agree or find common values. For example, if you and the other person both value the well-being of your children, you can focus on that shared value while discussing your different parenting styles.

Practice self-care

Having difficult conversations with friends and family can be emotionally draining. It's important to take care of yourself during and after these conversations. Practice self-care activities like exercise, meditation, or spending time with a supportive friend or family member. Remember that your feelings are valid and give yourself the time and space you need to process them.

Set boundaries

Sometimes, despite our best efforts to have productive conversations, we may find that the other person is not willing to listen or engage with our perspective. In these cases, it's important to set boundaries. Let the other person know what you are willing and not willing to discuss. You can also take a break from the conversation and come back to it later when everyone has had time to reflect.

Perhaps no amount of talking or spending time together will help this family member overcome their prejudice. If this person has stubbornly made up his or her mind, you will never be able to show him or her how beautiful your son or daughter is-autism and all.

If this is the case, eliminating this person from your life may be difficult, but it will also rid you and your child of this family member’s negative energy and personality.

In this developing situation, you need the best positive support available. (I’ve just figured this out in therapy) Remember that other family members have been supportive; that your children are adjusting well and are a source of strength for you. Strengthen your support network by participating in parent support groups for autistic children.

Most Importantly……

Mentally you can surround yourself with those who do accept and love your child.

Conclusion:

Having conversations with friends and family members who hold preconceived opinions can be challenging, but it's important to approach these conversations with an open mind and a willingness to listen and find common ground. By listening actively, sharing your perspective, finding common ground, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care, you can maintain positive relationships while navigating difficult conversations. Remember that growth and open-mindedness are the ultimate goals, and every conversation is an opportunity to learn and grow.