Definition of Not Belonging at Home

The following eighth grader replies to Brené Brown’s questions in her new book, Braving the Wilderness:

One student’s definition: “Not belonging at school is really hard. But it’s nothing compared to what it feels like when you don’t belong at home.”

When asked what that meant, the eighth-grade student used the following examples:

  • Not living up to your parents’ expectations.
  • Not being as cool or popular as your parents want you to be.
  • Not being good at the same things your parents were good at.
  • Your parents being embarrassed because you don’t have enough friends or you’re not an athlete or a cheerleader.
  • Your parents not liking who you are and what you like to do.
  • When your parents don’t pay attention to your life.

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