It’s In The Car We Are Able To Most Easily Discuss Tricky Topics

Research from Renault recently discovered that it’s in the family car that children are most likely to talk to their parents about what’s bothering them.

Ignoring the fact that Renault is motivated by family car sales, there is something in the finding that four in ten feel they can open up at that time without a judgemental stare. In the car, children cannot be disciplined nor eye contact made when talking about ’embarrassing’ issues.

A total of 54 per cent of children were more likely to talk about difficult topics whilst a parent was driving. And it’s not just the children taking advantage of the situation. A third of parents said it was also easier for them to broach delicate subjects with their children as well.

“This research suggests that the car journey can be a really important time for families, as for some it can be the only time where a conversation can take place with very little distraction,” says family psychologist Dr Linda Papadopolous.

“Based on the findings of the study it appears that parents feel that their children are more comfortable addressing deeper and more meaningful issues if they’re not under the spotlight – if mum or dad are focused on the road they can’t be under their watchful gaze, and sometimes this can make it easier to open up.”

A total of 2000 parents took part in the study from which the top 10 revelations children made were complied.

Renualt listed them as:

1. Something happening in a friendship at school
2. They didn’t do very well in a test
3. They had been naughty at school / got into trouble with a teacher
4. They forgot to do some homework
5. They accidentally hurt someone in the playground
6. They thought no-one liked them
7. They were being bullied
8. They were worried about a change in their body
9. They wanted to know more about the birds and the bees
10. They got a detention for something