I think a lot of psychological problems are the result of or at least are exacerbated by too much focus on the self to the exclusion of others, while serving others in general, if done with genuine goodwill, is better than any paid therapy; that ought to include raising kids. But, I did have a crazy mother and the world is only getting sicker...
Discussion
That’s part of the catch, moms ARE living for others, their intent is 100% honorable, so they fail to see how their approach to anything could be problematic
When you say “maybe that’s not the best way to do that” she hears “you’re a bad mother” and then it’s off the rails
When anyone gets feedback the risk is that they don’t hear the feedback, they just hear “you’re a bad person”
That’s not good, but hearing “you’re a bad mom” puts her at 110% defensive battle mode and you will lose because she’s effectively defending her kids, etc