How to Build a Positive Parent-Child Relationship

In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with[MH1]  Dr. Rubén Parra-Cardona, a family therapist and the Roger and Carol Nooe Endowed Chair and Professor[MH2]  in the College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee. They discuss the ethical foundations of parenting and share key principles to guide parents in nurturing resilient children.

 

They also cover:

    • How reflecting on your own history and motivations as a caregiver can lead to more intentional and effective parenting.

    • Ethical mandates — your responsibilities for raising another human being — and how they can guide you in making decisions that prioritize the well-being and development of your child.

    • Applying the principle of “asymmetry” to parent-child relationships and how it creates a secure environment for children to thrive.

Further reading:
How to Build a Positive Parent-Child Relationship – Child Mind Institute

Tips for Communicating With Your Teen – Child Mind Institute

Tips on Helping Your Child Build Relationships – Zero to Three

Creators and Guests

Host

Dave Anderson

Dave Anderson, PhD, is the Vice-President of Public Engagement and Education and a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. Dr. Anderson focuses on the expansion of our awareness-building and prevention programs while also leading initiatives that build the Child Mind Institute brand, foster strategic partnerships, and forge new relationships with policy makers and youth mental health leaders.

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Producer

Andrew Dearling

Andrew Dearling is the Digital Director at the Child Mind Institute, where he leads strategy and execution across web, email, social media, and digital campaigns. He focuses on using digital tools to connect more families with mental health resources, expand the organization’s reach, and drive measurable impact. Andrew combines deep expertise in content, platforms, and performance marketing with a clear understanding of how to reach people where they are, and move them to take action.

Producer

Chad Garber

Chad Garber, a seasoned Creative Producer with over 15 years of experience, shapes branded video, digital, and experiential content for Fortune 100 companies, agencies, and in-house teams to Child Mind Institute. Known for building high-performing creative operations, he led pro-bono productions to multimillion-dollar campaigns for brands like Verizon, Microsoft, New Balance, Budweiser, and FedEx. His sharp storytelling, deep production expertise, and collaborative leadership move ideas from concept to screen with impact.

What is Thriving Kids?

Parenting can feel overwhelming when kids struggle with anxiety, behavior, school, or big emotions. Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health.

Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode focuses on a common parenting challenge — from tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies grounded in science.

You’ll hear direct, expert guidance from clinicians who work with kids and families every day.

New episodes every week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.