Why Do Children Often Ignore Their Mothers? A Parenting Coach Reveals a Reason You Never Expected

Many parents, especially mothers, often complain that their children do not listen to them, answer back, or even behave rudely at times. This behavior deeply hurts mothers and leaves them wondering why their own children fail to respect them. Addressing this sensitive issue, a certified parenting coach has highlighted a crucial reason—one that most parents rarely consider.

According to Renu Girdhar, a certified parenting coach, the problem is not rooted in the child’s nature but in family dynamics and parental roles within the household.

The Hidden Reason Behind Children Ignoring Mothers

In a video shared on social media, Renu Girdhar explains that in many homes, discipline and daily routines largely fall on the mother’s shoulders. When fathers are busy with work, office responsibilities, or mobile phones, mothers become the primary enforcers of rules and structure.

As a result, mothers are repeatedly required to say “no,” correct behavior, and set boundaries. Over time, children begin to associate their mother only with restrictions, instructions, and discipline, rather than emotional support and authority.

When Discipline Becomes a Trigger for Pushback

The parenting coach explains that constant enforcement of rules leads children to push back. They may become angry, argue, shout, or show defiance because they subconsciously feel that their mother’s authority can be challenged or ignored.

This behavior gradually escalates when children realize that consequences are inconsistent or negotiable.

The Role of Fathers: A Crucial Influence

Experts stress that children learn more from observation than from lectures. When fathers ignore their wives’ opinions, interrupt them, or contradict them in front of children, youngsters unconsciously mirror the same behavior.

“If a father does not respect the mother’s words at home, children naturally assume that they can do the same,” Girdhar explains.

The Biggest Parenting Mistake

One of the most damaging mistakes occurs when a mother says “no” to a child, but the father immediately says “yes.” This instantly weakens the mother’s authority and sends a clear message to the child that her decisions are not final.

Once this pattern sets in, parents begin questioning why children no longer listen—without realizing that the answer lies in their own behavior.

Unity Builds Respect

According to the parenting coach, raising respectful children begins with parental unity. When fathers support mothers, acknowledge their decisions, and show respect toward them, children automatically learn to do the same.

“Strong parenting does not mean being strict—it means parents working as a united team,” Girdhar emphasizes. “When children see that their parents respect each other, they learn respect naturally.”

The Key Takeaway for Parents

If parents want their children to listen to and respect their mother, the change must start with the father’s behavior. Respect, consistency, and unity between parents form the foundation of effective parenting and emotionally balanced children.

Disclaimer: This article is based on expert opinions and is intended for general awareness. Parenting experiences may vary from family to family.