Is My Mom Acting Weird, or Is It Just Me? Understanding Generational Quirks
We’ve all been there. You’re sitting at the kitchen table, scrolling through your phone, when your mom walks in wearing mismatched socks, humming a song from the ’80s, and proudly announcing she’s started a TikTok account to post videos of her knitting projects. Or maybe she insists on saving every plastic grocery bag “just in case,” stacks them in a cabinet labeled “emergency supplies,” and then forgets about them for three years. Suddenly, a thought pops into your head: Is it just me, or is what my mom is doing kind of weird?
Before you spiral into a panic about your family’s quirks, let’s pause. What seems strange to you might actually be a fascinating blend of generational habits, cultural shifts, and even science-backed behaviors. Let’s unpack why parents—moms in particular—sometimes do things that make us scratch our heads.
—
The Generational Gap: Why Moms (and Dads) Seem “Out of Touch”
Parents often operate on a different wavelength because they grew up in a completely different world. Think about it: Your mom likely spent her teenage years without smartphones, social media, or instant access to global trends. Her version of “hanging out” might’ve meant talking on a landline for hours or passing handwritten notes in class. Meanwhile, you’ve grown up with apps, algorithms, and a constant stream of information.
These differences shape habits. For example:
– Tech Confusion: If your mom accidentally posts a selfie to her LinkedIn profile or uses hashtags like ThrowbackThursday on a photo of her cat, it’s not because she’s clueless—she’s navigating a digital landscape that wasn’t part of her upbringing.
– Frugal Habits: Saving leftovers, reusing containers, or stockpiling coupons might seem excessive, but many parents developed these habits during economic downturns or periods of scarcity.
– Over-the-Top Nostalgia: That obsession with ’90s boy bands or insistence on rewatching Friends for the 50th time? It’s her way of reliving a time when life felt simpler—a universal human craving, not just a “mom thing.”
—
When “Weird” Might Be Cultural or Biological
Sometimes, what we perceive as odd behavior has roots in biology or cultural norms. For instance:
– Hyper-Protectiveness: If your mom texts you 10 times a day to ask if you’ve eaten or lectures you about wearing a jacket in mild weather, blame biology. Studies suggest that maternal instincts—like worrying about a child’s well-being—are hardwired and amplified by hormones like oxytocin.
– Unusual Hobbies: From collecting porcelain figurines to gardening at 6 a.m., parents often lean into hobbies that younger generations find boring or outdated. But these activities provide stress relief, creativity, and a sense of purpose—especially as they age.
– Generational Etiquette: Ever cringe when your mom insists on writing thank-you notes by hand or making small talk with cashiers? Older generations were raised with strict social rules that prioritized politeness and formality, whereas younger folks often value efficiency and authenticity.
—
Is It Weird… or Just Different?
Labeling something as “weird” often says more about our own biases than the behavior itself. Take fashion, for example. Your mom’s love for neon windbreakers or oversized sweaters might clash with your minimalist aesthetic, but trends cycle endlessly. (Fun fact: Low-rise jeans and frosted lip gloss—staples of the early 2000s—are already making a comeback!)
Even seemingly irrational habits can have logical explanations:
– Saving Every Receipt: Could be a holdover from balancing checkbooks pre-online banking.
– Repeating Stories: Older adults often revisit memories to reinforce their sense of identity.
– Resisting New Foods: Taste buds change with age, and unfamiliar foods can feel intimidating.
—
When to Worry (and When to Let It Go)
Most “weird” parent behaviors are harmless, but there are times to pay attention. If your mom’s actions suddenly change—like withdrawing from hobbies, neglecting hygiene, or showing signs of memory loss—it could signal health issues like depression or dementia. Open a gentle conversation if you’re concerned.
Otherwise, try reframing your perspective:
1. Ask Questions: Instead of rolling your eyes, say, “Hey, Mom—why do you always [insert quirk here]?” You might learn a family story or historical context that makes her actions meaningful.
2. Find Common Ground: Bond over shared interests, even if they’re not your first choice. Watch her favorite movie, try her hobby for a day, or teach her a TikTok dance.
3. Set Boundaries (Politely): If her habits genuinely bother you—like barging into your room unannounced—calmly explain your needs. Use “I” statements: “I feel distracted when the door opens suddenly. Could you knock first?”
—
The Bigger Picture: Embracing Imperfections
Every family has its quirks. What feels awkward now might become a nostalgic memory later. Imagine looking back and laughing about the time your mom tried to use a hashtag incorrectly or wore socks with sandals on vacation. These moments often define the warmth and humor of family life.
So next time your mom does something that makes you think, Is this normal?, remember: “Normal” is subjective. Her habits are a product of her experiences, values, and even biology. Instead of judging, lean into curiosity. You might just gain a deeper appreciation for the person who’s loved you through all your phases—even that questionable emo haircut in eighth grade.
After all, someday your future kids might say, “Why does Mom/Dad still say ‘YOLO’ and take selfies with duckface? So weird.” And the cycle continues…
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Is My Mom Acting Weird, or Is It Just Me