It rolls right off a Boomer's tongue, probably because they heard it growing up and used it on their own kids."This phrase was used to establish authority, especially in households where obedience was tied to order," Dr. Saidi explains. "However, today it can feel invalidating. Younger generations value explanation because that builds trust, not defiance."
2. "You’re fine."
The intention gets lost in the sauce here, because this short sentence can send an adult kid or grandkid into a shame spiral."This phrase was used to encourage gratitude and perspective, especially in post-war eras or economically unstable eras," Dr. Saidi concedes. "However, emotionally, it invalidates real pain by suggesting that pain is only valid if it is the worst possible kind."Related: 8 Behaviors That Instantly Reveal Someone Has Low Emotional Intelligence, Psychologists Say
4. "Stop crying."
Dr. Saidi notes that Boomers' parents also often used this phrase to build "emotional toughness" in a post-war era that felt unforgiving. They may have turned around and used it on their own children with memories of Vietnam at the front of their mind—and a world that arguably felt even crueler."Today, it can feel like criticism and shame," she adds.Related: People Who Were Told They Were 'Too Sensitive' as Children Usually Develop These 14 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say
6. "That’s just the way life is."
7. "I’ll give you something to cry about."
This one is not only outdated but completely cringe—and harmful."This phrase came from a discipline model rooted in fear and obedience," Dr. Saidi explains. "It can linger in adult children as a reminder that expressing emotions once felt unsafe."Related: 7 Common Gaslighting Phrases Boomers Use With Their Adult Children, Psychologists Say
The Best Phrase Boomers Can Use To Build Connection With Kids and Grandkids
Unsplash
Related: 10 Things 'Naturally Nurturing' Grandparents Do Differently, According to Child Psychologists
Sources:
The Oldest Baby Boomer Turns 80 in 2026. Pew Research.Dr. Crystal Saidi, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks.Hence then, the article about 7 old school parenting phrases boomers still use that can come across as dismissive was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( 7 ‘Old-School’ Parenting Phrases Boomers Still Use That Can Come Across as Dismissive )
Also on site :