As a mother of three and a teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the tremendous impact that the way we parent has on our children’s growth. Sometimes, even with the best intentions, we can unknowingly fall into patterns that don’t nurture our children’s emotional and developmental needs. Neglectful parenting is a cycle that many find themselves trapped in without realizing it, and the effects on a child’s well-being can be profound.
For years, I’ve studied child development, seeking to understand how we, as parents, can do better—how we can create a nurturing environment that allows our children to thrive. In this journey, I’ve learned that neglect doesn’t always look like what we expect it to. It’s not always a matter of being absent physically—it can also be emotional absence, the failure to engage and connect with our children in ways that foster their growth. I want to share what I’ve learned with you so that, together, we can recognize these patterns and make changes that help break the cycle of neglectful parenting.
Parenting is never easy, but it’s one of the most important roles we’ll ever have. Our children’s future depends on the love, care, and guidance we provide today. Let’s explore how we can all become more mindful and intentional in the way we raise our kids, creating environments where they feel seen, heard, and loved.
1. What is Neglectful Parenting?
Definition of Neglectful Parenting
Neglectful parenting is often misunderstood. It’s not always about physical absence or neglect in the most dramatic sense. Sometimes, it’s the subtle, everyday things we fail to do—small things that add up over time. Neglectful parenting can be characterized by a lack of responsiveness to a child’s emotional, physical, or educational needs. This might mean not being present during important moments or not providing the emotional support a child needs to thrive.
Picture this: A mother busy with work and daily tasks might unintentionally ignore her child’s attempts to talk or ask for attention. While she’s not intentionally neglecting them, the emotional neglect that can result from such moments might go unnoticed. Over time, a child might feel like their needs aren’t important or their emotions don’t matter. This is the heart of neglectful parenting—it’s not always glaringly obvious, but it can be incredibly damaging.
Types of Neglect: Physical, Emotional, and Educational
Neglect can take many forms, and it’s important to recognize them all. It’s not just about one aspect of parenting—neglect can be physical, emotional, or even educational. Understanding these types can help us pinpoint where we might be unintentionally falling short and how to do better.
Physical Neglect
Physical neglect refers to not meeting a child’s basic needs for survival and well-being. This might include not providing adequate food, shelter, or clothing. A child who doesn’t have enough to eat or doesn’t have a safe place to sleep is experiencing physical neglect.
While we often think of physical neglect as extreme situations, it can show up in smaller ways. For instance, a child not getting proper medical care when they’re sick, or a parent forgetting to supervise their child when they’re playing outside, are examples of neglect that can have long-term effects. It’s easy to get caught up in life’s responsibilities, but these basic needs are non-negotiable for a child’s safety and health.
Emotional Neglect
Emotional neglect happens when parents fail to respond to a child’s emotional needs. A parent may be physically present but emotionally distant. This kind of neglect is harder to detect, but its consequences can be just as harmful as physical neglect.
Consider a child who’s trying to express sadness, anger, or fear, and their parent doesn’t acknowledge or validate those emotions. The child might learn that their feelings aren’t important or that it’s not okay to express emotions. Emotional neglect can lead to feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.
Educational Neglect
Educational neglect occurs when parents fail to support their child’s learning or education. This might mean not ensuring they attend school regularly or not providing a conducive environment for learning at home.
For example, if a child struggles with schoolwork but the parent doesn’t offer help or encouragement, that could be a form of educational neglect. It’s easy to overlook the importance of supporting your child’s education when life gets busy, but education is a crucial part of a child’s future success. Without the right guidance and support, children can fall behind and miss out on opportunities to excel.
Differences Between Neglectful Parenting and Other Parenting Styles (e.g., Authoritarian Parenting)
Neglectful parenting is often confused with other parenting styles, like authoritarian parenting, but they are very different. It’s essential to understand the distinction because it’s easy to feel like we’re being neglectful when we’re simply being strict or distant due to stress or exhaustion.
Neglectful Parenting vs. Authoritarian Parenting
Authoritarian parents are often seen as strict and demanding. They enforce high expectations and rules without offering much warmth or emotional support. However, authoritarian parents are still present and involved in their child’s life, even if they don’t show a lot of affection or flexibility. The difference with neglectful parenting is that authoritarian parents are still engaged with their children, even if they seem stern or distant at times.
Neglectful parenting, on the other hand, involves a lack of presence—whether physically or emotionally. It’s not about setting high standards but about not responding to a child’s needs at all. In authoritarian parenting, the child might feel pressured or misunderstood, but they still know their parents care about their development. In neglectful parenting, however, a child might feel abandoned or unheard, which can have deeper and longer-lasting effects.
The Key Difference: Involvement
The key difference between neglectful and authoritarian parenting is involvement. Neglectful parents are often absent, either emotionally or physically, from their child’s life. In contrast, authoritarian parents are present but impose rigid rules without a lot of warmth. Neglectful parenting fails to provide the consistent attention and emotional support children need, while authoritarian parenting, though potentially harmful, does offer structure and a certain degree of parental engagement.
Recognizing neglectful parenting requires us to step back and look at whether we’re meeting all of our children’s needs—not just their physical needs but their emotional and educational ones as well. In doing so, we can better understand where we might be unintentionally neglecting our children, and take steps to break the cycle and provide the loving, supportive environment they deserve.
2. Recognizing the Signs of Neglectful Parenting
Warning Signs in Parents: Lack of Attention and Support
When it comes to neglectful parenting, the warning signs in parents are often subtle. Many parents may not realize they’re neglecting their child’s needs until it becomes a more serious issue. This lack of attention and support doesn’t always involve grand gestures like outright abandonment—it’s often a series of small moments that add up over time.
Imagine a parent who is constantly distracted, whether by work, technology, or their own personal struggles. They might be physically present but emotionally unavailable. Perhaps they don’t take time to connect with their child after school, or they’re too busy to notice if their child is feeling down.
A parent might also miss signs that their child needs help with homework or struggles emotionally. For instance, if a child has a sudden drop in grades and the parent doesn’t ask questions or offer support, this could signal neglect. Similarly, when a child reaches out for emotional comfort—like seeking a hug after a bad day—and the parent is too tired or busy to respond, the child might begin to feel like their emotions don’t matter. Over time, the absence of this support can create a sense of insecurity, leaving the child to fend for themselves.
Parents who don’t make time to nurture their child’s emotional and educational needs may think they’re doing enough simply by providing for them physically. But children need more than food and shelter—they need love, attention, and guidance. When that’s missing, the effects can be far-reaching.
Warning Signs in Children: Behavioral and Emotional Indicators
The signs of neglect in children are often more noticeable, especially when you start looking for them. Children may act out in ways that reflect unmet needs, either emotionally or physically. One of the most obvious signs is when a child starts acting out, whether through tantrums, aggression, or withdrawal.
For example, a child who has consistently been neglected emotionally may begin to act out in school. They might get into trouble more often, either as a way of seeking attention or because they don’t know how to manage their emotions properly. You might see them struggle with forming friendships or appear overly anxious or depressed.
Emotionally, these children might become withdrawn or overly clingy. A child who has never been shown affection might become desperately attached to any adult who offers them a small amount of attention. On the flip side, some children might emotionally shut down completely, refusing to engage with anyone. This emotional shutdown can be a defense mechanism against the pain of feeling neglected.
A lack of attention can also manifest in a child’s social skills. If they’re not getting the interaction they need at home, they might not know how to communicate with peers or form positive relationships. Children who experience neglect might also show signs of low self-esteem, such as constantly putting themselves down or showing little interest in self-care.
These behavioral and emotional indicators are crucial in identifying neglect early. By being aware of these signs, parents can take action before things spiral out of control.
Long-term Effects on Child Development: Social, Emotional, and Cognitive Growth
The long-term effects of neglectful parenting are serious and can affect all areas of a child’s development. Neglect doesn’t just affect a child in the moment—it can shape who they become as adults. Neglected children may struggle with social skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive development.
Socially, neglected children often find it difficult to build trust or healthy relationships. They may struggle to interact with others, which can lead to feelings of isolation or rejection. Without the foundation of secure attachments to their parents or caregivers, they may have a hard time understanding how to behave in social situations.
Emotionally, the effects can be even more profound. Neglected children are more likely to develop issues like anxiety, depression, or low self-worth. They may feel unworthy of love or attention, or they might fear abandonment. These emotional struggles can carry over into their teenage years and adulthood, leading to unhealthy relationships or a lack of confidence.
Cognitively, neglect can hinder a child’s ability to learn and develop important skills. Without the support and encouragement they need, neglected children often fall behind in school. They might struggle with reading, writing, or problem-solving skills, which can lead to academic failure. This is not because the child isn’t capable, but because they didn’t have the emotional or intellectual support needed to succeed.
All of these long-term effects can persist well into adulthood, making it essential to break the cycle of neglect before it takes root.
Role of Attachment Theory in Neglectful Parenting
One of the key concepts to understand in the context of neglectful parenting is attachment theory. This theory, developed by psychologist John Bowlby, emphasizes the importance of a strong emotional bond between a child and their primary caregiver. This attachment forms the foundation for a child’s emotional and social development.
When parents are neglectful, they fail to form this strong, secure attachment. This is particularly dangerous for a child’s emotional health. A child who doesn’t receive adequate attention, love, and support during their formative years may struggle to trust others or regulate their emotions. In fact, insecure attachment can lead to a range of issues, including difficulty forming relationships and emotional instability later in life.
Take, for example, a child who doesn’t get the nurturing care they need. Instead of feeling safe and secure in their relationship with their caregiver, they might feel abandoned or unimportant. This lack of attachment can affect their ability to feel confident and secure in the world around them. The absence of a secure attachment makes it difficult for children to feel that their emotional needs will be met, leading them to withdraw or act out.
Attachment theory also explains why neglect can have such profound long-term effects. When a child’s attachment to their caregiver is weak or insecure, they struggle to build healthy relationships in the future. They may carry feelings of unworthiness or insecurity into adulthood, affecting their ability to connect with others or even parent their own children effectively.
By understanding attachment theory, we can see how neglectful parenting can disrupt the natural emotional development of children. The earlier we recognize this and begin to nurture secure attachments, the better chance we have to break the cycle of neglect and provide our children with the love and support they need to grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults.
3. The Impact of Neglect on a Child’s Development
Physical and Emotional Consequences of Neglectful Parenting
Neglectful parenting can take a heavy toll on a child’s physical and emotional well-being. When parents aren’t emotionally available, children don’t receive the support they need to thrive. It’s easy to overlook how small actions—or the lack of them—can impact a child’s development. When a child is not hugged enough, not reassured, or even left to navigate challenges alone, they feel abandoned, which affects their emotional stability.
Emotionally, neglected children often face overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even anger. For example, a child who’s used to being ignored may develop a belief that they are unworthy of attention or love. These emotions might show up as a general sense of irritability, unexplained tears, or even trouble connecting with peers.
The physical side of neglect might not always be as obvious, but it still shows up. Kids who lack attention may be more prone to physical health problems, like frequent illnesses or injuries. Their immune system can be weaker because neglect leads to chronic stress, which takes a toll on the body. Stress in children, particularly from neglect, can affect everything from sleep to digestion, creating a cascade of issues that go unnoticed until they become significant.
Cognitive Development and Educational Challenges Linked to Neglect
When parents neglect their child’s intellectual needs, it shows in the child’s cognitive development. Kids learn best when they’re encouraged to explore, ask questions, and engage in creative problem-solving. But if a parent doesn’t nurture this curiosity, the child’s growth may be stunted.
Imagine a child who has to work through homework alone, with no help or encouragement. Over time, they may develop a negative attitude toward learning. They might struggle with basic academic tasks or feel overwhelmed by subjects like reading or math, even though they’re capable. Without the intellectual stimulation and emotional encouragement they need at home, children can become disengaged from their education.
Neglect also impacts attention span and focus. For example, a child who doesn’t receive regular praise or constructive feedback may have a harder time staying on task. They might feel disconnected from school and think that their efforts don’t matter. This can create a pattern of underachievement, where the child eventually disengages from the educational system altogether.
The effects on cognitive development can be long-lasting. Children who don’t have the chance to develop strong cognitive skills due to neglect may find it harder to navigate more complex tasks as they get older. This can impact their ability to succeed academically and carry over into adulthood, limiting their career choices and personal growth.
Behavioral Issues and Relationship Struggles from Neglectful Parenting
Children raised in neglectful environments often face significant behavioral challenges. With little to no emotional guidance or nurturing, they might not learn how to manage their emotions or interact positively with others. This can lead to a range of behaviors, from outbursts of anger to becoming socially withdrawn.
Take, for example, a child who grows up without parental support. As they age, they might start acting out in school, or they might struggle to form healthy friendships. A child who doesn’t receive affection or emotional care might find it hard to express themselves, leading to difficulty in managing social situations.
These behavioral issues aren’t just limited to childhood. As these kids grow into teenagers and adults, they can carry those patterns of behavior into their relationships. They might struggle to trust others, which can affect romantic relationships, friendships, and even parenthood. Without the proper emotional foundations, they might also have trouble regulating their emotions, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse or isolation.
At the core of these issues is the inability to develop secure attachments, which leads to the inability to form lasting, healthy relationships.
The Role of Early Childhood Education in Mitigating Neglect
Early childhood education can play a pivotal role in reducing the impact of neglectful parenting. When parents are unable or unwilling to meet a child’s needs, outside support from quality early education programs can help fill the gap.
A strong early education program provides children with the intellectual stimulation they may be missing at home. It offers structure, routine, and a sense of security—something children from neglectful homes often lack. In these settings, kids learn not just academic concepts but also social skills, emotional regulation, and how to work as part of a team.
For instance, a child who has never been read to at home might flourish in an early childhood education setting where they’re exposed to books, storytelling, and group activities. This nurturing environment provides the child with the attention and structure they may not get at home, helping them develop a love for learning.
Early childhood education also provides an opportunity for educators to notice warning signs of neglect. Teachers and caregivers can spot behavioral, emotional, or cognitive challenges early on and intervene, offering additional resources for the child and family. Programs like Head Start in the U.S. are specifically designed to help children from low-income or neglectful backgrounds get a head start on education, helping them break the cycle of neglect and poverty.
By offering nurturing, structured environments, early childhood education not only provides essential academic lessons but also acts as a buffer against the damaging effects of neglect. It ensures that every child, no matter their background, has the opportunity to develop into a well-rounded, confident individual.
4. How to Break the Cycle of Neglectful Parenting
Identifying and Acknowledging Parenting Mistakes
Every parent has moments where they fall short. Acknowledging parenting mistakes is not a sign of weakness, but a brave step towards growth. We all have days when we yell, forget an important event, or just feel overwhelmed by the chaos of family life. It’s how we react afterward that matters. If you’ve realized you’ve been neglectful—whether emotionally, physically, or even just by being absent mentally—it’s important to own up to it.
Think back to a time when you were frustrated with your child, and maybe your response wasn’t ideal. Perhaps you told them to stop crying without trying to understand why they were upset, or you shut down emotionally because you were simply exhausted. Identifying these moments, instead of ignoring them, allows you to grow as a parent. You can take a deep breath, apologize, and, most importantly, learn how to handle things differently next time.
Parents who ignore their mistakes might continue the cycle of neglect, causing more harm over time. But if you accept that everyone makes mistakes, you open the door to growth, both for yourself and your child. By being vulnerable, you teach your children the power of self-reflection and the importance of saying “I’m sorry” when necessary.
Steps to Building a Supportive and Nurturing Parent-Child Relationship
A strong parent-child relationship is built on trust, love, and consistent support. To build this connection, start with a foundation of emotional availability. Show your child that you’re there for them not just physically, but emotionally as well. Listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, and offer comfort when needed. For instance, if your child is upset about a school project, instead of brushing it off with a quick “You’ll be fine,” take a moment to listen to their worries. It will make them feel heard and valued.
Consistency is key in building trust. If your child knows that no matter what happens, you’ll always be there to talk, or to comfort, they feel safe. For example, setting aside time each day for a short conversation or a shared activity, like reading together, can go a long way. These small moments create a deep emotional bond that carries through even difficult times.
It’s also important to nurture your child’s individuality. Celebrate their unique qualities, and be their biggest cheerleader. If they love painting, encourage them to create, even if it gets messy. These moments of encouragement and affirmation foster a relationship built on love, not obligation.
Seeking Professional Help: Therapy, Counseling, and Support Networks
Sometimes, as a parent, you may reach a point where you realize that you need more than just self-reflection and good intentions to break the cycle of neglect. That’s when professional help becomes invaluable. Therapy or counseling can help you work through your own emotions and challenges, enabling you to be the best version of yourself for your child.
Therapists can guide parents in developing new coping strategies, enhancing their emotional intelligence, and creating healthier boundaries. They can also help you understand the root causes of neglect—whether it’s stress, mental health struggles, or simply a lack of parenting skills. Therapy offers a safe space where parents can express their fears, frustrations, and guilt without judgment.
Support networks, including parenting groups or online forums, also provide an outlet for parents to connect with others who might be going through the same challenges. These communities remind you that you’re not alone. Sometimes, simply hearing another parent share their story can make all the difference.
Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re taking proactive steps to be a better parent. The road to healing is often smoother when you have the right support system by your side.
Practical Tips for Creating Positive Parenting Habits and Consistency
Creating positive parenting habits isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. Small actions taken consistently will lead to long-term improvements in your parenting. Start by setting achievable goals for yourself, whether it’s being more present with your child, improving communication, or taking better care of your own mental health.
For example, if you struggle with reacting calmly in stressful situations, set a goal to take a deep breath before responding. Practicing mindfulness can help you stay composed, even when tempers are rising. Over time, your child will learn by example how to manage their emotions more effectively.
Another habit to focus on is giving your child undivided attention. In our digital age, distractions are everywhere. But nothing beats the positive impact of spending uninterrupted time with your child. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a simple game, or reading a bedtime story together, these moments help foster emotional connection and trust.
Being consistent with discipline is also a key habit. If your child knows what to expect, they feel more secure. Stick to your rules, but be fair and compassionate when addressing mistakes. Consistency doesn’t mean being rigid, but rather offering clear expectations and consequences.
By focusing on these small, everyday habits, you’ll create a nurturing environment for your child. It won’t happen overnight, but with patience and consistency, positive change is within reach.
5. Practical Parenting Strategies to Prevent Neglect
Setting Boundaries and Expectations for Parenting
Setting clear boundaries and expectations is vital for creating a safe and predictable environment for your child. Imagine your home as a little society; just like any society, rules keep things running smoothly. Children thrive when they know what’s expected of them, and parents benefit from less stress when they’re clear about the guidelines.
For example, you might set boundaries around screen time. Instead of making vague rules like “no screens,” try being specific—“No screens during dinner or after 8 p.m.” This clarity helps your child understand exactly what’s expected, reducing confusion and frustration.
However, setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” to things. It’s also about teaching your child why the boundaries are there. If they know the reason behind a rule, like ensuring time for family bonding, they’re more likely to respect it. Plus, setting boundaries helps kids learn self-control, an essential skill for life.
When setting expectations, remember that consistency is key. If you allow a boundary to be crossed once, your child may start to test how flexible the rules are. So, when you lay down the law, be prepared to follow through—this helps your child feel secure and valued.
Building Emotional Availability and Communication
Emotional availability and open communication are the bedrock of a healthy parent-child relationship. But it’s easier said than done. Life is busy, and sometimes, it feels like we’re all running from one task to the next. However, if you pause to truly connect with your child emotionally, even on the busiest days, it can make all the difference.
Start by making time for “mini conversations” throughout the day. Whether it’s a short chat while you’re cooking dinner or a quick check-in while your child is playing, these moments of connection count. For example, ask them about their day or how they’re feeling, and make sure to listen without distractions. Let them know they’re heard, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes.
Being emotionally available also means showing vulnerability. When you’re feeling frustrated or sad, it’s okay to share those feelings with your child in an age-appropriate way. This teaches them that emotions are natural, and it’s okay to express them.
The key is to foster a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. When children know they can talk to you without fear of judgment, they’re more likely to turn to you when they need guidance.
Encouraging Positive Reinforcement and Healthy Boundaries
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to guide your child’s behavior. Instead of focusing on what they did wrong, emphasize what they did right. For example, instead of scolding your child for being too noisy at the table, praise them when they sit calmly and use their “indoor voice.” This not only encourages the behavior you want but also helps build their self-esteem.
Think of positive reinforcement as the “power-up” button in a video game. When your child experiences rewards for good behavior, it motivates them to continue making positive choices. The rewards don’t have to be big or material—compliments, hugs, or extra playtime can go a long way.
At the same time, healthy boundaries are essential to prevent children from becoming overly reliant on praise. It’s important that they understand the difference between earned rewards and entitled behavior. Acknowledge their effort, but also teach them about responsibility and consequences. For instance, if your child does something helpful without being asked, praise them, but remind them that taking initiative is part of being a responsible family member.
By using positive reinforcement in combination with healthy boundaries, you’re creating a balanced approach to discipline that fosters confidence and respect.
Utilizing Resources: Parenting Books, Support Groups, and Online Courses
Parenting can sometimes feel like you’re building a plane while flying it. That’s why it’s so important to tap into available resources to help you navigate the challenges. Parenting books, support groups, and online courses can provide valuable insights, strategies, and encouragement.
For example, there are countless parenting books written by experts that provide evidence-based advice on everything from managing tantrums to fostering emotional intelligence. These books offer real-life examples and actionable tips you can implement at home. A good book might offer insights you never thought of, like how to handle a teenager’s mood swings or how to deal with a child’s fear of failure.
Support groups can be incredibly helpful, too. Connecting with other parents who are going through similar challenges can be reassuring. You’ll hear stories that are surprisingly relatable and realize you’re not alone. Whether it’s a local group or an online community, the support from others is invaluable.
Finally, online courses provide structured learning opportunities for parents who want to dive deeper into specific areas of parenting. Whether you want to learn how to create a positive family routine or explore strategies for managing your child’s social skills, there’s a course for it. These resources equip you with knowledge and confidence to face the ups and downs of parenting with a clearer perspective.
By utilizing these resources, you’re not only enhancing your parenting toolkit, but you’re also showing your child the importance of lifelong learning.
Conclusion
Recognizing and breaking the cycle of neglectful parenting is not an easy journey, but it is a necessary one. By understanding the signs of neglect—whether physical, emotional, or educational—and addressing them head-on, parents can pave the way for healthier, more fulfilling relationships with their children. As parents, it’s vital to provide love, support, and guidance, even when life feels overwhelming. Acknowledging mistakes is the first step toward healing, and by taking action, you can create a nurturing environment for your child to thrive.
Building a strong, positive parent-child relationship requires commitment, patience, and empathy. The goal is not perfection but progress. Small, consistent changes can lead to powerful shifts in your parenting approach. Remember, parenting is a journey, not a destination. By taking proactive steps to improve your relationship with your child, you help create a foundation for a future built on trust, love, and understanding.
If you find yourself struggling, know that support is available. There’s no shame in asking for help, whether it’s through therapy, parenting groups, or online resources. By seeking guidance, you are taking a powerful step toward breaking the cycle of neglect and becoming the kind of parent your child deserves.
FAQs
- What are the main signs of neglectful parenting?
Signs of neglectful parenting include a lack of physical care (e.g., unclean clothes, malnutrition), emotional unavailability (e.g., not providing comfort when needed), and failure to meet educational needs (e.g., not supporting learning or school activities). - Can neglectful parenting affect my child’s emotional development?
Yes, neglectful parenting can severely affect emotional development. Children who experience neglect often struggle with trust, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. They may also face difficulties forming healthy relationships later in life. - How can I break the cycle of neglectful parenting if I was raised in that environment?
Breaking the cycle starts with self-awareness. Acknowledge the impact of your upbringing and commit to doing things differently. Seek therapy or counseling, educate yourself on positive parenting techniques, and lean on supportive networks to help you change harmful patterns. - What are some effective resources for parents struggling with neglectful tendencies?
Parents can benefit from a range of resources, including parenting books, support groups, and online courses. Counseling or therapy can also be extremely beneficial, as it provides a space to explore underlying issues and gain professional guidance on improving parenting strategies. - How can I improve my relationship with my child if I’ve made neglectful mistakes?
Start by apologizing and acknowledging the hurt caused. Be consistent in showing up for your child emotionally and physically. Setting aside quality time for them, listening to their needs, and practicing positive reinforcement can go a long way in rebuilding trust and strengthening the relationship.