‘Badtameezi pe nahi utar sakte’: Madhu Chopra on the importance of respect in family relationships

She added, “Aur plus humara khud ka wajoot tha, dono, toh hum uske kaam ko respect karte the aur woh humari ko karti thi. Toh mutual respect goes a long way in our relationship jo saath jude rahe abhi tak, woh based on respect (Plus, both (Priyanka and Madhu) of us had our own individual identities, and we respected each other’s work. That mutual respect has played a significant role in keeping our relationship strong to this day—it’s all based on respect.)”

Her words highlight an essential aspect of parenting—encouraging children to be vocal about their feelings while ensuring that respect remains a fundamental value.

 

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So, how does open communication within a family, while maintaining respect, impact a child’s emotional well-being?

Psychologist Rasshi Gurnani says, “Open and respectful communication within a family plays a huge role in a child’s emotional well-being. When kids feel safe expressing their thoughts and emotions without fear of being judged or dismissed, they develop confidence and emotional resilience. It also helps them cope with challenges better because they know they have a support system at home. When parents encourage open conversations, children are less likely to bottle up their feelings, reducing stress and anxiety. Plus, when kids see their parents as approachable, it builds a stronger bond based on trust and mutual respect.”

Effective ways parents can encourage freedom of expression without losing authority or boundaries

Freedom of expression doesn’t mean a lack of boundaries. Gurnani notes, “Parents can encourage open conversations while maintaining authority by setting clear expectations. This means teaching children that while they’re free to express themselves, they must do so in a respectful manner. Listening without interrupting or dismissing their feelings is key—it makes children feel heard and valued. Parents should also lead by example by communicating respectfully themselves. Encouraging kids to be part of discussions about family rules and decisions helps them understand why certain boundaries exist, rather than feeling like they’re just being controlled. Providing gentle guidance on how to express emotions in a healthy way is another great way to strike a balance.”

How can families strike a balance between allowing emotional expression and ensuring that disagreements remain respectful?

Gurnani stresses, “Of course, disagreements are bound to happen, but keeping them respectful is what truly matters. Families can create ground rules for arguments, making it clear that raising voices or saying hurtful things isn’t acceptable.” 

Teaching emotional intelligence—helping children recognide and manage their feelings—can make discussions more productive. Using phrases like “I feel” instead of blaming statements prevents conversations from turning into full-blown fights. If emotions run high, taking a short break before resuming the discussion can help everyone cool down. And if things get too difficult to handle alone, seeking outside help, like family counseling, can provide new perspectives and solutions.