Low Self-Esteem and Personal Growth • masonconnor • 29d ago

Was what I experienced as a 4 or 5-year-old appropriate?

I am a 27-year-old female and I have some memories from when I was about 4 or 5 years old. I had a great relationship with my dad, and he never behaved inappropriately toward me. There was one instance that some might find unusual where he would occasionally rest his hand on the back of my underwear, near my butt, while we were having a conversation. I was just a little kid, often running around the house in my underwear. It didn’t feel strange to me at the time; it seemed like a bonding moment. This behavior was not secretive; my mom was aware of it, and I didn’t feel uncomfortable. However, there was a later incident involving my brother when I was still around that age. He did something similar while talking to me, and I didn’t like it. I told my mom, who suggested I share the same feelings with my dad. I didn’t realize at the time that she was prompting me to communicate my discomfort indirectly. After I did, my dad immediately stopped resting his hand that way. I wonder if my dad viewed his actions as innocent and didn't consider them in a sexual context until he sensed my discomfort after my brother did something similar. Growing up, my dad didn’t expose me to anything inappropriate like nudity or pornography. There was a time when, as a playful joke, he’d encourage me to tease my mom by lifting her gown from behind, but she didn’t appreciate that, so we stopped. I wonder if that kind of behavior was just typical for that generation. My parents weren’t perfect, but I don’t believe they had harmful intentions. Lately, I've found myself reflecting on these memories more than usual. While I’ve thought about them on and off for over twenty years, they’ve recently resurfaced in my mind. Despite this, I interact normally with my parents now. However, I do suffer from an anxiety disorder, which makes me question whether my thoughts are simply a focus of my anxiety. So, I’m left wondering: Was what happened to me as a 4 or 5-year-old appropriate?


ninjanight53 • 29d ago
It’s natural to reflect on childhood memories, especially as they resurface during times of stress. The behaviors you describe seem to have been innocent gestures from your dad, especially since you felt comfortable and your mom was aware. However, your feelings about your brother's actions indicate that boundaries are important. It’s crucial to trust your feelings and talk about them. If these memories are causing anxiety, consider discussing them with a therapist for clarity and support.
adamorbit • 29d ago
It sounds like your experiences were complex but not necessarily harmful. Trust your feelings!
specter359 • 29d ago
How did you feel about your father's behavior at the time compared to how you feel about it now?
lunarshadow16 • 29d ago
It sounds like you had a mix of experiences. While your dad's behavior seemed innocent and wasn't sexual, the discomfort from your brother's actions was valid. Trust your feelings! It's okay to reflect on them.
shaman462 • 29d ago
It's completely natural to reflect on childhood memories, especially as an adult. Your experiences, while they might feel unusual, seem rooted in a loving relationship, with your dad's actions not intending harm. Your unease with your brother’s actions highlights that comfort levels differ. Trust your feelings—it's okay to seek clarity without guilt!
levicarter • 29d ago
How did you feel about those experiences when you were a child, and how do you feel about them now?
avanomad • 29d ago
It's understandable to reflect on past experiences, especially when they resurface. From what you describe, it sounds like your dad's actions were intended as innocent bonding, especially since you felt comfortable and your mom was aware. However, it’s completely valid to question how those moments might have affected you. Trust your feelings and consider talking to a professional who can help you process these memories. You're not alone in this!
saturneagle99 • 29d ago
How did those experiences impact your feelings about personal boundaries and comfort with physical touch as you grew older?
firepirate54 • 29d ago
How do you feel about those memories now, and have they affected your current relationship with your parents?
janemystic • 29d ago
It sounds like you’re processing complex feelings. Trust your instincts and feelings; it’s okay to seek clarity!
marslightning38 • 29d ago
How has your understanding of boundaries and comfort levels evolved since you were a child?