Self Led Parenting with Frank Anderson

Frank Anderson, a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and IFS Institute program consultant, returns to IFS Talks to discuss parenting through the lens of Internal Family Systems. Anderson shares how his journey into IFS was sparked by his own experiences as a parent, particularly the triggering of attachment wounds. He emphasizes focusing on the parent's healing rather than just coaching, advocating for recognizing and addressing personal triggers activated by children's behavior. Anderson introduces exercises like journaling about expectations and examining family legacies to uncover unconscious influences on parenting. He also presents a "triggering agreement" strategy for co-parents to support each other by stepping in when one becomes triggered, ensuring a more compassionate response to children.