If your child has started calling you "bruh," don’t be alarmed—you’re not alone!
Many parents are hearing this slang from their kids, and it can be confusing.
But don’t worry, it’s more about their evolving social identity and less about disrespect.
Let’s dive into why this happens and how you can handle it.
Where "Bruh" Comes From
The term "bruh" started out as a casual version of "bro" or "brother."
It was mostly used by young men to address their friends.
Over time, it’s grown to be more than just that.
Thanks to social media, especially platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and meme culture, "bruh" has become a flexible word.
Kids use it for everything, from expressing surprise to frustration, or even just as filler in conversation.
For example: “Bruh, I can’t believe you forgot my soccer game.”
In this case, your child is using "bruh" to express mild frustration.
But it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re upset with you.
It’s become a default word—similar to "um" or "like"—that helps fill gaps in casual conversations.
@youfilmme.tv Do y’all feel that words have taken on new meanings? #Questionoftheday #podcast #fyp #xzyabc #twist #whatareyourthoughts ♬ ♡ ᶫᵒᵛᵉᵧₒᵤ ♡ - SoBerBoi
Why They’re Calling You "Bruh"
When kids use "bruh" with their parents, it’s often a sign that they’re feeling more casual or comfortable around you.
It may seem like they’re treating you as a peer, which can feel disrespectful depending on your expectations.
But from their perspective, it’s likely just part of their social language, influenced by their interactions with friends and media.
It’s also worth noting that kids go through phases where they test boundaries.
They might be seeing how you react when they treat you more like a buddy than an authority figure.
This doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t respect you—it’s just part of how they’re learning to interact with the world.
What You Can Do About It
So, what’s the best way to handle being called "bruh"?
First, take a deep breath. It’s not a personal attack.
The next step is to have an open, calm conversation.
You could ask them, "Why do you keep calling me 'bruh'?"
This opens the door for dialogue without making them feel defensive.
If it really bothers you, set clear boundaries.
You might say something like, “I get that ‘bruh’ is how you talk with your friends, but I prefer when you call me Mom (or Dad).”
Make it less about punishment and more about mutual respect.
Final Thoughts
Language evolves, and kids are quick to pick up the latest slang.
While being called "bruh" can be jarring, it’s important to remember that it’s not always a sign of disrespect.
By having an open conversation, you can better understand your child’s world while setting boundaries that work for your family.
Plus, who knows? You might even pick up a little of their lingo along the way!
Next time you hear "bruh" from your kid, take it as an opportunity to connect, not just as a slang term.
