Adolescents are not monsters. They are just people trying to learn how to make it among the adults in the world, who are probably not so sure themselves.
Virginia Satir

Every word, facial expression, gesture, or action on the part of a parent gives the child some message about self-worth. It is sad that so many parents don't realize what messages they are sending.
Virginia Satir

Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible - the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family.
Virginia Satir

Life is not what it's supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.
Virginia Satir

Problems are not the problem; coping is the problem.
Virginia Satir

So much is asked of parents, and so little is given.
Virginia Satir

The recommended daily requirement for hugs is: four per day for survival, eight per day for maintenance, and twelve per day for growth.
Virginia Satir

We can learn something new anytime we believe we can.
Virginia Satir

We must not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us.
Virginia Satir

We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.
Virginia Satir


What lingers from the parent's individual past, unresolved or incomplete, often becomes part of her or his irrational parenting.
Virginia Satir