I was physically and mentally abused as a child. Now that I have children myself, I try really hard to give them the kind of life I never had. I have promised myself never to hit them or swear at them or anything like that (while still trying to have clear rules and standards of behaviour) but I still live in fear of repeating the mistakes of my parents. Losing my temper even a little makes me feel like an abuser.
Recently my 3 year old son has been telling people that I hit him and say horrible things to him (he’s just repeating what he hears when I tell him not to hit or say horrible things to his sister). He is very good at acting and will do a very convincing performance of looking all sad and tearful. Usually when asked he will admit that he’s making it all up but I find it really upsetting on so many levels. Not least the worry that I will be reported to social services for something I would never ever do.
Does anybody have any advice or experience with something like this?