by Thom W. Conroy

Created on: June 03, 2009

The parental role is diverse in it's scope - no two parents are the same because no two people are the same. This simple statement applies as well to children, as their behaviors reflect any number of variables ranging from intellect to environment and from genetics to the actions and values of their peer group. There is one singular, indisputable constant in the parent-child relationship, and that is a parent will without fail get the behavior they are willing to accept from a child. Child Psychologists and Therapists have created a booming industry based solely upon the clientle of those with weak parenting skills and misguided children.

Sadly, more often than not the blame for poor behavior in children is placed with the child in question, when in fact, the parent should take a hard look at their own shortcomings. We collectively as a society have become accustomed to blaming behavioral issues in children upon the child themselves or on conditions such as ADD or ADHD, and generally have no problem in rationing behavioral modification drugs to kids with less than optimum behavioral patterns. This is not to imply that conditions such as ADD and ADHD are not causative and valid, but it would appear as though any inquiry of an individual child's behavior should begin with a thorough examination of the parent's impact on conduct and deportment.

It would be more than apparent to an observant party, that today's society has a convoluted view of parenting in general, and as specifically applied to disciplining and educating children. We have progressed, allegedly, to a "kinder and gentler" society, one in which corporal punishment of children is considered abusive and ghastly. Modern parents have lost the perspective of what is required of them to raise respectful and considerate Human Beings - it has seemingly been replaced by a desire to be considered "friends" of their children, rather than parents. The relationship between parent and child is askew, with an emphasis placed on childhood narcissistic behavior becoming acceptable.

The role of a parent today is the same as it was 100 or 200 years ago - to educate, nurture, and to impart upon their children the knowledge and tools that are necessary for a happy and productive life. While this role is not always pleasant or easy, it serves the best long-term interest of the children involved to be corrected immediately and without reservation by a parent who encounters behavioral issues. A parent who has lost the control and respect of their children is powerless to help a misguided child that is in for a long and difficult life.

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