Donald Trump struggles to bond with son Barron due to 60-year age gap, psychologist says

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Former President Donald Trump appears to be unaware of key details about his youngest son, Barron Trump, including his age and future educational plans.

The former president, who turned 78 in June 2024, might struggle to keep up with Barron, as his youngest son is more than 50 years younger than him.

Additionally, a New York-based psychologist suggested that Donald Trump's aging could be contributing to their disconnection—assuming they were ever close to begin with.

Donald Trump and Barron Trump may face challenges due to their age gap

Donald Trump married Melania Trump in 2005, and shortly after, the couple learned they were expecting. Their son, Barron, was born on March 20, 2006, making him Melania's first child and Donald's fifth.

If the father and son were ever close at all, New York-based neuropsychologist Dr Sanam Hafeez speculated that Trump's advanced age might be the source of their dispute.

In an exclusive interview with Nicki Swift, Dr Sanam Hafeez, director of Comprehend the Mind, highlighted the potential challenges Donald Trump and his son Barron might experience due to their significant age difference.

They may face challenges such as poor communication, difficulty bonding over shared interests, and conflicting views on various topics, including politics.

Furthermore, Barron might be under additional strain to continue the Trump family legacy. "Expectations within the family can also create tension, with the father expecting the son to uphold family traditions or values, and the son feeling pressure to meet these expectations," Hafeez explained.

Celebrity psychologist Hafeez weighed in on the emotional strain that Barron would experience as his father, the former president, ages.

Hafeez noted, "Emotional distance may emerge if either struggles to express vulnerability or if unresolved conflicts strain their relationship," adding that Barron might find it difficult to deal with his father's eventual death.

Donald Trump and Barron's relationship might not be as close as former POTUS portrays

According to reports, Barron Trump and Donald Trump do not appear to be as close as the former president likes to pretend. However, Barron will find it difficult to watch his father age.

Dr Sanam Hafeez further cautioned that as time goes on, the younger Trump could find himself worrying more about his controversial father.

Explaining the challenges Barron might encounter, Hafeez said, "It could potentially be challenging for Barron Trump to see his father nearing his eighties, as this phase of life often brings various emotional and practical considerations."

"Witnessing a parent age can evoke feelings of concern, especially if there are health issues or changes in physical capabilities," she added. "Barron might experience stress or worry about his father's well-being and may need to adjust to a role where he may provide more support or caregiving."

As Donald enters his senior years, the opportunities for father-son bonding with Barron may diminish, and as his physical abilities decline, creating new memories could become increasingly difficult for them.

Hafeez noted, "There could be differences in energy levels and activities that Barron and his father can engage in together."

"Donald Trump, as he ages, might have different preferences and limitations regarding lifestyle and social interactions, which could affect their relationship dynamics and shared experiences," she added.

Donald Trump makes efforts to actively parent Barron despite their age gap

While Barron, at 18, may require less parenting, Donald will likely find it increasingly challenging to stay actively involved in his upbringing as he nears 80.

Dr Hafeez added that although Donald might grow slower now that he is older, he might compensate by making sure Barron has a stable financial future.

"Donald Trump might worry about his own health and longevity, especially as he navigates older age," Hafeez said.

"Ensuring financial stability and security for Barron's future could be a priority. Donald Trump might consider estate planning, investments, and provisions for Barron's education and well-being, particularly as he moves into retirement years," she explained.

Hafeez further mentioned that Donald might make up for his lack of physical endurance by following some wise counsel.

"Donald Trump might want to impart values, life lessons, and prepare Barron for adulthood, despite the generational gap and differences in life experiences," she added, noting that Barron would also want to utilize this opportunity to strengthen his bond with his elder brothers.

In the end, Barron is still a youngster, and Donald must act as Barron's moral mentor if he is to be an ideal father. "Donald Trump may want to provide emotional support and maintain a strong connection with him," Hafeez remarked.

Even though Donald's getting older, he still has time to become more than just a dad who signs cheques.

"This involves being available for discussions, offering guidance, and fostering a supportive relationship despite potential age-related differences," Hafeez concluded.

The 18-year-old has officially started his college career at New York University. He was photographed on campus on Wednesday, September 4, launching his freshman year in classic Trumpian style.