Archive · 11 Nov 2025
Kajol on Being Called a 'Bad Mother and Wife'; Psychologist Explains Impact
Sometimes, people unfairly call working moms 'bad mothers' or 'bad wives.'
Actress Kajol says she used to hear this but now doesn't let it bother her because her kids love her.
A doctor who helps people with their feelings explains that hearing these mean things can make people start believing them, which can make them feel sad, anxious, or confused.
It can also make it hard for them to get along with others because they worry too much about what everyone thinks.
The doctor suggests ways to feel better, like reminding yourself that you are doing your best and that it's okay to make mistakes.
It's also important to be kind to yourself, set limits with people who are always critical, and talk to a professional if you need more help.
Actress Kajol stated she is no longer bothered by labels like 'bad mother' or 'bad wife' as she prioritizes her children's perception of her.
Clinical Psychologist Aparna Rai explained that internalizing negative labels can corrode self-perception and lead to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Negative labeling can impact interpersonal relationships, causing individuals to withdraw, people-please, or become defensive.
Rai advised strategies such as cognitive reframing, self-compassion, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help to manage the effects of negative labels.
The discussion highlights the societal scrutiny faced by working women and provides insights into coping mechanisms for psychological well-being.
- Who
- Actress Kajol and Clinical Psychologist Aparna Rai
- What
- Kajol spoke about being subjected to negative labels as a mother and wife and how she no longer lets them affect her, while a psychologist explained the mental health impact of such labels and coping strategies.
- When
- Recently
- Where
- Kajol's statements were made on Shubhankar Mishra's podcast Newsbook; the psychologist's explanations are provided in an accompanying article.
- Why
- To highlight the societal judgment faced by working women and provide insights into managing the psychological effects of negative labeling.
- Actress
- Kajol
- Statement Source
- Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast Newsbook
- Expert
- Aparna Rai, Clinical Psychologist at Cadabams Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centre
- Psychological Concepts Discussed
- Self-schema, cognitive dissonance, confirmation bias, people-pleasing, self-compassion, cognitive reframing, CBT, ACT