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Where Should We Begin? · September 15, 2025 · 53m
We Became Parents and Forgot We Were Partners
A couple who lost their romantic connection after having children. All their energy goes to the kids; none is reserved for each other. Perel explores how parenthood can consume a partnership — and why protecting the couple relationship is essential, not selfish.
This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.
Highlights
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The couple relationship is the foundation of the family — neglecting it harms children, not protects them
Perel: parents who sacrifice their partnership for their children paradoxically harm their children. Children's emotional security is built on the stability of their parents' relationship. A thriving partnership models love; a dead one models duty. Children feel the difference.•
Identity expansion — becoming a parent should add to your identity, not replace it
Perel: many parents lose themselves in the role — 'mother' or 'father' eclipses every other identity: partner, friend, individual, lover. Perel argues that healthy parenthood expands identity rather than replacing it, and that children benefit from parents who are full people, not just caregivers.Was this useful?