In his book "Naked," David Sedaris reflects on his relationship with his father and the unique way he would handle disagreements. Rather than simply denying his children's requests, his father would go a step further by asserting that they didn't actually want what they were asking for. This approach created a confusing dynamic in which the children's genuine desires were invalidated. It highlights a form of manipulation that some parents might use to exert control over their children.

This technique not only undermines the children's confidence in their own wishes but also complicates communication within the family. By denying the children's feelings and desires, the father placed himself in a position of authority, insisting that he understood their wants better than they did. Sedaris's reflections reveal the lasting impact of such interactions, shaping how individuals express and assert their desires in future relationships.