Are able to be caring, loving, and social people. Show a willingness to devote time to a daughter’s happiness. Have a sense of humor, individual strength, personal motivation, intelligence, and courage. Demonstrate a desire for honest and open discussion. Have the capability to give sound, timely guidance.
These same daughters had no trouble voicing what they disliked or admired least. What they found least appealing in a mom include a lack of activities outside the house, moodiness, the tendency to overanalyze them, and the attempt to manipulate them.
What Mothers Need and Want
This list may look strikingly similar to what their daughters need and want from them: love, praise, approval, kindness, empathy, forgiveness, respect, friendship, time and companionship, understanding, support, and validation. This is probably a good time to pause and consider when, how, and if these needs have been met in your mother-daughter relationship.
