Fatherhood: The Silent Anchor of Emotional Development
When we talk about parenting, we often center the mother–child relationship.
But new research — and heartfelt conversations like this one — prove that fatherhood is just as emotionally formative.
In this episode, Krysten Taprell, psychologist and author of The Therapist Parent, joins Reena Chopra to explore the hidden power of fatherhood and emotional balance in parenting.
Why Supporting Mothers Strengthens the Whole Family
Krysten begins by reminding us:
“When we support the mother, we automatically support the child.”
When a mother feels emotionally held — by her partner, family, or community — her nervous system co-regulates with her child’s.
That means calm energy from the parent = emotional safety for the child.
Fatherhood, therefore, isn’t about being a secondary caregiver; it’s about being a stabilizer.
Emotional Mirroring: Children Feel What Parents Feel
Children don’t just listen — they absorb.
If parents are constantly anxious, overworked, or emotionally unavailable, kids internalize that energy.
Reena Chopra adds,
“We cannot teach emotional regulation if we’ve never practiced it ourselves.”
Both parents must learn to manage their emotions, so their children can model empathy and problem-solving in real time.
Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish
Self-care often feels indulgent, especially in Indian culture. But it’s actually maintenance — not luxury.
Even 15 minutes of mindful breathing or journaling can help parents reset before they respond.
“If parents run on empty,” Krysten says, “children grow up thinking exhaustion is normal.”
Balanced parents raise balanced children.
The Father–Child Connection
Fathers bring a unique blend of security, play, and predictability.
They teach risk-taking safely, encourage independence, and model resilience.
In families where fathers are emotionally engaged, children show:
- Higher self-esteem
- Better impulse control
- Greater empathy
- Lower anxiety levels
Fatherhood isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present.
Connection Over Control
One of Krysten’s core messages is simple: connection always outweighs control.
When you connect first — through eye contact, curiosity, or humor — discipline becomes easier and cooperation natural.
Reena Chopra summarizes it beautifully:
“Rules without relationship lead to resistance.”
A Healthy Partnership Builds Healthy Children
When children see parents treating each other with respect and warmth, they internalize the model for future relationships.
Conflict handled with empathy teaches emotional maturity better than lectures ever could.
Every argument is an opportunity to show that love can coexist with disagreement.
Parenting isn’t about doing it all — it’s about doing it together.
When mothers and fathers share emotional labor, they raise children who understand balance, not burnout.
And that’s the real gift of fatherhood: stability through presence. 💛
Learn more about emotional parenting frameworks at
👉 Saar Holistic Wellness
Become a certified parenting professional through
🎓 Parenting Coach Program
Explore Krysten’s work:
🌐 The Therapist Parent
