Why ‘strong kids’ still need to cry – like a tree that bends instead of breaking

Emotional Release: Clinical psychologist, explains that crying is a child's natural mechanism to release strong emotions like sadness, anger, and frustration, serving as an important emotional outlet.

Societal Pressure: Society often discourages crying, particularly in boys, through phrases such as "be strong" or "boys don't cry," teaching children to suppress their true feelings and equate vulnerability with weakness.

Harmful Suppression: Child psychotherapist Doctors warns that suppressing tears can lead to emotional dysregulation, anxiety, and depression in adulthood, hindering healthy emotional development and expression.

Parental Role: Parents are crucial in creating a safe, non-judgmental space for children to express emotions, validating their feelings, and teaching that crying is a healthy, natural response, not a fault.

Developmental Benefits: Allowing children to cry helps them develop emotional intelligence, understand their feelings, reduce stress, and foster deeper connections, contributing significantly to their overall mental health.