I’m never going to become a parent because I don’t want to have children. However, as someone who is interested in psychology and mental health, the topic of parenthood is still important to me, because I see that it can create lasting effects on a person, even on myself.
Parents who are extremely strict seem to create one of two children: a child that becomes very anxious or very rebellious. On one hand, children who strive to please strict parents may develop anxiety in trying to live up to their demands, but on another, the child might decide to just rebel against it. Either way, it doesn’t create a close (healthy) bond with the parental figure. Children do need to be guided, but I disagree with the idea that they should be monitored constantly in their internet time and school and social life. Children living in fear of their parents isn’t healthy, and encourages anxiety. It implies you don’t trust the child, and in turn, they probably won’t trust you.
Parents who are extremely loose in their parenting style (whether it’s an absence or inconsistency in parenting) seem to create children who feel disconnected. Children shouldn’t live in fear of strictness, but they also should be taught how to function and deal with problems. If not, they have to figure it out all on their own, which is healthy to a degree but shouldn’t be the case all the time, especially if the child is young. The point of parents is to teach and raise, and to be on their child’s side.
I like the idea of parents adjusting their parenting style to fit the child. Some kids need more guidance than others. Some need more space. But in my opinion, you should never abandon nor constantly monitor your child. Consider being stricter when the child is young to protect them, but as they develop their moral compass and prove themselves you can slowly give them more slack. You should trust your child and want to protect them, and it should show through your actions as a parent.
Childhood consists of formative memories that can set the foundations for human behavior. If your child doesn’t want to see you after they’ve all grown up because they found their childhood traumatizing or damaging, it’s the parent’s fault.
Word count: 410
Annabelle, this was a very interesting peace! I liked how you talked about both sides of parenting and where to find a middle balance. I thought it was cool how you talked about the mental health effects that last on a child as they grow up. I thought it was also funny how you talked about not wanting children but you still take interest in the psychology behind parenting very cool. Great Job!
ReplyDeleteAnnabelle, I thought you had a good perspective on parenthood. I agree with your point about how two types of children are created when parents are extremely strict. You explained it really well, to the point I was able to see a bit of myself in it. Parenting styles should fit the child, and your blog strongly argues it. Great job!
ReplyDeleteHey annabelle, i agree with all of your ideas in your writing. I come from a family of relatively strict parents, and i happen to be in the middle of the rebellious/anxious side. Parents are extremely influential in their childrens lives, and how they treat them has a significant impact on them especially as a person
ReplyDelete