In "The Children," the unnamed narrator never explicitly states what is "wrong" with his parents. However, the story implies several issues:
* Emotional Distance: The parents are depicted as distant and emotionally detached from their children. They engage in superficial conversations and seem more concerned with their own anxieties than their children's well-being.
* Lack of Communication: The family struggles to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and frustration. The narrator's parents are portrayed as closed off and unwilling to share their thoughts and feelings.
* Unrealistic Expectations: The parents have unrealistic expectations of their children, particularly regarding their understanding of adult concepts and emotions. They pressure the children to act older than they are, leading to a sense of alienation.
Instead of directly stating what's wrong, Barthelme uses subtle details and the narrator's observations to create a picture of a dysfunctional family where communication is strained and emotional connection is lacking.