13 Things Younger Generations Do That Hurt Their Parents Deeply

13 Things Younger Generations Do That Hurt Their Parents Deeply

Generational gaps aren’t just about music preferences or fashion trends—they run much deeper, often creating misunderstandings and even unintended hurt. Younger generations embrace independence, change, and a fast-paced lifestyle, but these shifts can unintentionally cut deeply into the hearts of their parents. While you might not think twice about certain actions, your parents might be silently nursing feelings of rejection, sadness, or confusion. Let’s unpack 13 common behaviors that younger generations might not realize are hurting their parents more than they know—and why these actions matter so much.

1. Choosing Friends Over Family, Every Time

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It’s natural to want to spend time with your friends—they’re fun, they get you, and they’re your chosen family in many ways. But when your social life consistently takes precedence over your parents, it can sting. Imagine spending years raising someone, only for them to seem uninterested in spending even a fraction of that time with you. According to Better Relationships, things like skipping family dinners, canceling weekend visits, or declining every invitation can make them feel unimportant. Showing up every now and then—even if it’s just for a quick cup of coffee—can remind them that they’re still a priority in your life.

2. Ghosting Them Between Calls

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Parents grew up in a time when phone calls weren’t optional—they were a lifeline. So when days, weeks, or even months pass without a call or text, it can feel like a bit of an emotional black hole. They might not say anything, but trust me, they notice. For them, a quick “Hey, thinking of you” is more than a polite gesture—it’s a reminder that you still value the connection. Younger generations might think sending memes counts as communication (and sure, it’s cute), but nothing beats an actual conversation. Five minutes out of your day could mean everything to them.

3. Rolling Your Eyes at Their Advice

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We’ve all done it—our parents start with their “back in my day” wisdom, and we tune out or offer a sarcastic, “Thanks, Mom.” But what feels like harmless dismissal to you might feel like outright rejection to them. Parents offer advice because they’ve lived through struggles and want to help you avoid the same pitfalls. For example, according to The Wall Street Journal, one of the most important pieces of advice we get from our parents surrounds finances. Sure, their guidance might feel outdated, but brushing it off too quickly can hurt more than you think. Even if you don’t take their advice, listening respectfully shows you value their input. And who knows? Every now and then, they might actually be right.

4. Moving Far Away Without Maintaining a Connection

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Pursuing your dreams in another city—or another country—is exciting and necessary for personal growth. But for parents, your move can feel like an emotional chasm. They’re happy for you, sure, but they’re also silently grappling with the emptiness of your absence. What hurts most isn’t the distance itself but the lack of effort to stay connected. When phone calls are sporadic, visits are rare, and updates are few and far between, according to The White Swan Foundation, it’s natural that parents might feel forgotten. A simple schedule of regular check-ins or even a surprise visit can remind them that, despite the miles, they still matter in your life.

5. Turning Family Struggles Into Public Drama

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Social media is the ultimate megaphone, but blasting your parents’ shortcomings or family conflicts online can be deeply hurtful. A snarky tweet or a vague, passive-aggressive post like “Some people should mind their business” might get likes, but it also creates public embarrassment for your parents. According to the California Learning Resource Network, younger generations often forget that what feels like harmless venting to them can feel like a betrayal to their parents. Instead of airing grievances online, consider having a private, face-to-face conversation. It’s not only more respectful but also far more productive.

6. Ignoring Family Traditions That Mean the World to Them

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Whether it’s the annual holiday dinner, a quirky family game night, or a cultural tradition passed down through generations, these rituals often hold deep emotional significance for parents. When younger generations brush them off as inconvenient or outdated, it can feel like a rejection of their values and everything they worked hard to build. Sure, you might not love every tradition (the matching pajamas might be a bit much), but showing up and participating is actually more important than you think. Family Compassion says that family traditions are actually a way for your parents to impart values in you. Besides… those traditions might mean more to you someday than you realize right now.

7. Refusing to Lean on Them When You Need Help

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Younger generations pride themselves on independence, often to the point of refusing help—even when they’re struggling. Parents, on the other hand, want to feel needed. They spent years caring for you, and being excluded from your challenges can feel like they’re no longer relevant in your life. Whether it’s asking for advice, borrowing tools, or seeking emotional support, letting them help strengthens your bond. It’s not about dependence; it’s about connection.

8. Acting Like Their Opinions Are Outdated

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Generational divides mean that parents might not always share your views on politics, culture, or technology. But dismissing their opinions as “out of touch” can feel like you’re saying they don’t matter. People want to feel heard, no matter their age. Engaging in thoughtful conversations—even when you don’t agree—shows you value their perspective. You don’t have to change your beliefs, but you can honor theirs without shutting them down.

9. Forgetting to Say “Thank You”

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Parents often pour their time, energy, and resources into supporting their kids, even long after they’ve moved out. When those efforts go unacknowledged, it can sting. A heartfelt “thank you” for the little things—like watching your dog while you’re away or sending you a care package—goes a long way in making them feel appreciated. A simple gesture like a handwritten note or a surprise “thanks for everything” phone call can warm their hearts more than you know.

10. Downplaying Their Struggles

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Younger generations sometimes forget that their parents face challenges, too—whether it’s health issues, financial pressures, or the emotional toll of aging. Brushing off their struggles or failing to check in can make them feel invisible. A quick, “How are you really doing?” can open the door for deeper connection and remind them they’re not navigating life’s hardships alone. Being empathetic and offering support isn’t just kind—it’s the foundation of a strong family bond.

11. Skipping Milestones That Matter to Them

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Birthdays, anniversaries, and family reunions might seem like just another day to you, but for parents, they’re meaningful markers of life’s journey. Missing these moments—whether due to busyness or lack of interest—can make them feel unimportant. Even if you can’t be there in person, sending a card, flowers, or a heartfelt message can show you care. Remember, these milestones are as much about celebrating your connection as they are about the occasion itself.

12. Criticizing How They Raised You

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No parent is perfect, and it’s okay to acknowledge areas where things could have been different. But outright criticizing their parenting choices can cut deeply. Most parents did the best they could with the tools and knowledge they had at the time. A little empathy and understanding go a long way. Instead of focusing on what went wrong, try appreciating what went right. Gratitude often softens even the toughest conversations.

13. Treating Them Like a Low Priority

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Between work, hobbies, and social lives, younger generations often have packed schedules. But when parents consistently feel like they’re the last item on your to-do list, it can hurt deeply. Making time for them—whether it’s a weekly phone call, a spontaneous dinner, or a planned family outing—reminds them that they’re still an important part of your life. Time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give, and for parents, it’s priceless.. Recognizing how your actions affect them—and making small adjustments to show you care—can strengthen your relationship in ways that last a lifetime. Because no matter how much independence you gain, family is always worth the effort.

This content was created by a real person with the assistance of AI.

Georgia is a passionate story-teller and accomplished lifestyle journalist originally from Australia, now based in New York City. She writes lifestyle content for Bolde Media, publishers of Bolde, Star Candy and Earth Animals.