In today’s world of ever-changing parenting trends, it can feel like there’s always a new style to follow. From FAFO to helicopter, lawnmower, lighthouse, free range, and roommate parenting, moms and dads often find themselves falling into these unique categories. However, according to parenting expert Devon Kuntzman, there’s one style that should be avoided at all costs.
Kuntzman, with 942k followers on Instagram and author of “Transforming Toddlerhood,” warns against obedience-first parenting. This approach relies on blame, shame, guilt, judgment, and fear to assert control over a child, prioritizing adult authority over the child’s emotions and needs. While it may lead to immediate compliance, the long-term effects can be detrimental, resulting in increased anxiety, people-pleasing tendencies, and emotional suppression, among other issues.
Instead, Kuntzman advocates for authoritative parenting, a style rooted in setting clear boundaries while taking a child’s feelings and needs into account. Unlike obedience-first parenting, which can instill a fear of losing unconditional love, authoritative parenting fosters a sense of security and autonomy in children. By upholding boundaries, parents help their children feel safe and supported, allowing them to work through their emotions and develop essential life skills like decision-making and self-regulation.
In a modern women’s lifestyle magazine, this parenting advice could be presented as a reflection on the importance of setting boundaries while nurturing a child’s emotional well-being. Highlighting the contrast between obedience-first and authoritative parenting styles, the feature could offer insight into how mindful parenting practices can positively impact a child’s development and overall happiness. Ultimately, the focus would be on empowering parents to create a supportive and loving environment that allows children to thrive.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.