Is it normal to resent your child?
It can happen to feel resentment toward your child, especially when you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or carrying too much alone. The feeling doesn’t make you a bad parent, but it’s worth paying attention to what’s feeding it and getting support if it sticks around.
Yes, this can happen—and it’s often less about not loving your child than about feeling depleted, trapped, unsupported, or like your needs have disappeared. Parenting can bring up feelings people are reluctant to admit, including resentment, and having the feeling doesn’t make you a bad parent.
What matters is how you respond to it. Try to name what’s underneath the resentment: lack of sleep, no time to yourself, unequal parenting duties, or a tough stage with your child. If it keeps building, talk honestly with someone you trust or a counselor, and ask for practical help rather than trying to white-knuckle it alone.
If you’re worried you might take your feelings out on your child, create some safe space and contact someone you trust for immediate help. You deserve support, and so does your child.