It’s tough being a child. When a child says, “I hate you,” it’s not true hatred but a reaction to emotions they can’t express. These moments reflect struggle, not hate. Hate isn’t innate; it stems from pain—often a loss of connection or visibility (feeling unseen). In their distress, the words “I hate you” emerge instinctively.
This can leave us feeling angry, sad, or drained as we struggle to understand their behavior. Let’s show kindness to ourselves and seek ways to address these challenges with compassion for ourselves.