Is it normal to really dislike your mean kid?
Yes—it can happen to feel intense dislike or resentment toward your child, especially when you’re worn down by repeated conflict. The feeling doesn’t make you a bad parent, but it’s worth looking at what’s driving it and how to keep things respectful and safe.
Parenting doesn’t switch off your feelings. If your kid is regularly rude, defiant, or hurtful, you may feel angry, distant, or even like you don’t enjoy being around them. Plenty of parents have thoughts like this and feel ashamed to admit it; having the feeling isn’t the same as not loving your child or acting cruelly toward them.
Try to separate your kid from the behavior: “I love you, and I won’t let you speak to me that way.” Stress, exhaustion, and ongoing family conflict can make resentment build, so getting a breather and talking with someone you trust can help. If you’re worried you might take your anger out on your child, get support promptly and make sure another safe adult can step in.