Is it normal to hate your own child?
Feeling hatred or resentment toward your child can happen, especially when you’re overwhelmed, but it can be painful and isn’t something you have to handle alone. What matters is keeping your child safe and getting support if the feeling is intense or persistent.
Parents can have thoughts or feelings they’re ashamed of—anger, resentment, even “I hate you” feelings—especially when they’re exhausted, stressed, unsupported, or struggling with their own mental health. Having a feeling doesn’t make you a bad parent, and it doesn’t mean you don’t love your child. But ongoing, consuming hatred is a sign that you deserve more support, not more shame.
Tell someone you trust what’s going on, and consider talking with a therapist, doctor, or parenting-support professional. If you’re worried you might hurt your child, put some safe distance between you and them, ask another trusted adult to take over, and seek urgent help now. You don’t have to wait until things get worse to ask for help.