Influence of Dan Siegel's Interpersonal Neurobiology principles on parenting

 

Dr. Dan Siegel has worked on various topics, including the anatomy of the brain and nature of the mind, research on parenting, and various practical applications of mental health. But, Dan Siegel interpersonal neurobiology concepts have opened up a whole new dimension to dealing with mental health problems.

In this blog, we shall discuss the impact of parenting on the mental of a developing child into a mentally healthy child. So, let us begin by understanding:

The anatomy of the Brain and PFC's (Pre-Frontal Cortex) role in developing a healthy mind:

As stated by Dr. Dan Siegel's theories, the Pre-Frontal Cortex region of the brain is responsible for integrating all the activities and functioning of the mind and the body. The PFC assists us in becoming aware of ourselves and remaining emotionally well-balanced by:

·         Being responsive instead of giving reactions

·         Relying on intuition more than empathy

·         Paying attention to the intention of our body

Children who show patterns of secured attachment with their parents have strengthened the Pre-Frontal Cortex. The neurobiology of WE Daniel Siegel has linked the brain's structural development with the relationship a child shares with their caregiver. Therefore, it is clear that the way children are treated emotionally and socially will reflect on them physically.

How to foster secure attachment in a child?

Dan Siege linterpersonal neurobiology theories state that parents can use the four S's to foster security of attachment in their child. If you are new to parenting, here are the four S's that you must remember:

Ø  Safety: A parent's responsibility is to avoid any responses or actions that would hurt or frighten the young mind of a child.

Ø  Security: You must provide your children with a sense of well-being. You must work along with your kids to develop comfort and happiness from within.

Ø  Soothe: You should be able to deal with uncomfortable situations and difficult emotions without being reactive. Soothing your child and protecting them from any dangerous external factors is one of the important responsibilities that you need to fulfill as a parent

Ø  See: Seeing your child doesn't refer to just seeing them with your eyes. Dr. Siegel says that you must empathetically perceive your child's presence. Also, an essential aspect of parenting is understanding your child's mind to decipher the root cause of their behavior.

You might get several suggestions on the Internet suggesting –breast-feeding, being responsive, co-sleeping, and baby-wearing as some of the essential good parenting practices. However, the theories and concepts of Interpersonal neurobiology, as stated by Dr. Siegel, will certainly help you become better parents, irrespective of the kind of experience you had during your childhood.

A secret parenting tip to inspire a healthy mind:

Connecting and Redirecting is one of the integral concepts explained in the neurobiology of WE Daniel Siegel. The concept of Connect and Redirect states that when your child's right side of the brain is more active and driven by physical action and emotions, then resolving the issues or understanding them through reasons and words won't work.

Generally, as parents, you must first integrate the habit of connecting emotionally with your child by making subtle changes in facial expressions, tone, touch, eye contact, and gestures with appropriate intensity so that your child feels seen. After you have met with the right side mode of your child's mind, you can help them get redirected to planning and reasoning.

Conclusion:

All the concepts introduced by Dan Siegel interpersonal neurobiology will certainly be helpful in effective parenting. However, do not get overwhelmed after reading about all the things that are mentioned here. Make one move at a time and practice them slowly and steadily to let these emotions come naturally to you.

Children are sensitive to the responses and quality of the environment around them. Therefore, you must not be nervous or forceful while performing any of these activities, as your child will pick on the vibe sooner than you realize.

If you seek any interpersonal therapy sessions to improve your parenting skills, connect with us at Green Light Heidi. Our therapists work on the concepts introduced by Dr. Siegel to counsel patients. Here is the contact number -727 288 4117. Call us to know more about the counseling sessions we offer. You can also connect through email at heidicrockett@gmail.com