There is a TV show called The World’s strictest parents that takes teenagers with serios attitude and behavioral issues and places them in the home with no-nonsense parents for a period of time. These strict parents then whip these kids into shape to the astonishment of their parents.
I caught this show a couple of times and got the impression that the show was saying that the “bad” kids were that way because they did not have enough structure at home. By applying structure and strict rules, a child will then alter his or her ways and become more respectful and agreeable.
I know that there is some truth in this, but for the life of me, I can’t imagine how a week or so of structure is going to stop a lifetime of bad behavior. I also doubt that strictness alone is not going to make a good kid.
Still, the show caused me to ask myself, am I a strict parent? Do I set consistent rules for my kids? Do I give in to their repeated requests, even though I have already told them no? Do I let them disrepect me and then give them what they want?
Anyone who knows me will know that while I am a relaxed parent, I am indeed strict. Rules are clear. Infractions will cause punishment. Once I have said no, the word “please” has no effect on me. I don’t allow them to disrespect me… period.
Why am I strict? Because my parents were strict… at least for the first seven kids they raised. They were not strict with the last two, for reasons unknown, and the result is clear.
I have discovered that discipline early in life makes of a smoother entry into adulthood and a happier life in the long run.
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