The rising issue of estrangement in families has garnered significant attention, with about 27 percent of families in the United States experiencing this painful divide. The conversation has been particularly fueled by voices like Doormat Mom, who has openly defended estranged parents since her emergence in August 2024. Through her own journey of listening and learning, she highlights the complex reasons behind estrangement.
At the core of this crisis lie multiple factors. Doormat Mom identifies entitlement and a victimhood mentality, shaped by pervasive societal influences, as prime contributors to the breakdown of family ties. The role of social media and traditional media cannot be overlooked, as they promote unrealistic standards and narratives that further alienate family members. For many, political differences, financial strains, and clashing moral values add additional layers of contention.
Among these factors, two stand out as particularly troubling: the adoption of “gentle parenting” practices and the waning influence of faith and God in daily life. The author provocatively suggests that modern parenting may inadvertently turn children into idols, leading to detrimental consequences for family unity. Drawing from biblical teachings, she emphasizes the commandment against idolatry, asserting that many parents today might unknowingly bow down to their own children, fostering an unhealthy dependency.
This misguided approach can create a cycle of expectation without responsibility. Parents often believe they are nurturing their children by prioritizing their desires above all else, fearing that failure to do so might label them as toxic or neglectful. However, this misplaced devotion frequently yields fragile dispositions among children, conditioned to demand constantly while building emotional barriers. The phrase, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions,” resonates here, illustrating the unintentional pitfalls that can arise from misguided parenting.
Doormat Mom notes that this trend is not entirely new, pointing to the long-standing human tendency to idolize self while neglecting the foundational principles laid down by faith. Many Christian parents view estrangement as a form of spiritual warfare, raising concerns over societal shifts that seem synchronized with a departure from God. As this spiritual void deepens, children become enamored with their perceived entitlement and the lavish treatment they believe they deserve.
The implications of estrangement go beyond individual families; they threaten the very fabric of society itself. The author warns that without cohesive and stable family units, the nation faces an uncertain future. In seeking solutions, she calls for a hard look at parenting norms, urging parents to reassess their priorities and reestablish proper boundaries. This return to foundational values could initiate a revival, transforming the estrangement epidemic into a renewed commitment to family unity.
In essence, the message is clear: idolizing children takes them away from their rightful roles, damaging relationships and eroding family loyalty. By recognizing the consequences of misplaced priorities, families could take the first steps toward healing the fractures of estrangement. The revival of family bonds may just start by placing God and His principles back at the center.
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