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Growing Toward Self Discipline
Jinny Hopp, Human Development Specialist, Jasper County, University of Missouri Extension
A formula that answers all of the parenting questions about child discipline does not exist. Children are unique and so are their families. As a result, a discipline strategy that might work with one child may not work with another.
That is one reason why family specialists continually
remind parents and caregivers that positive guidance and
discipline are crucial to promoting a child's
self-control, teaching responsibility and helping
children make thoughtful choices.
The more effective caregivers are at encouraging
appropriate child behavior, the less time and effort
adults will spend correcting children's misbehavior.
Every adult who cares for children has a responsibility
to guide, correct and socialize children toward
appropriate behaviors.
Many family specialists agree that using physical force,
threats and put-downs can interfere with a child's
healthy development. For example, there is evidence that
physical punishment has negative effects on children.
Effective guidance and discipline focuses on the
development of the child while preserving the child's
self-esteem and dignity. Actions that insult or belittle
can cause children to view their parents and others
negatively, which can inhibit learning and teach the
child to be unkind to others. However, actions that
acknowledge the child’s efforts and progress, no matter
how slow or small, are likely to encourage healthy
development.
Teaching children self-discipline is a demanding task.
It requires patience, thoughtful attention, cooperation
and a good understanding of the child. It also requires
knowledge of one's own strengths and struggles with
disciplinary issues.
Parenting and childcare will always be challenging, no
matter how well prepared you are. However, helping your
children achieve self-discipline is worth your effort.
It is a major foundation for life-long personal and
social development.
For more information, see:
Guiding Children's Behavior
Is spanking ever a good idea?
What are some alternatives to spanking?
GH6119 - Positive Discipline and Child Guidance
Source:
Gershoff, E. T. (2002). Corporal punishment by parents
and associated child behaviors and experiences: A
meta-analytic and theoretical review. Psychological
Bulletin, 128, 539-579.
Last Updated 09/26/2007
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