Parenting
Most would agree that parenting is a lifelong job. The parent’s obligations begin once the baby is conceived and seemingly never end, even after his or her child becomes an adult.
Suppose that you are the parent in each of the following scenarios. Based on what you have learned from this unit’s materials, answer the following questions for each scenario by explaining how you would effectively handle each situation.
Note: While it is understood different people and even entire cultures have different parenting styles, your answers should be based on the research and theories presented in this unit.
Describe the stage of cognitive development of the child in each scenario.
Explain how you would address the child and the situation. Will you use punishment in any of the situations? What tactics would be the most useful considering your child’s level of cognitive development?
Scenario 1: At the playground, your 5-year-old daughter shoves another child and takes away the child’s toy. Your daughter then screams at the child and runs away.
- Scenario 2: You discover that your 13-year-old son has taken $20 from your purse and is planning to use it to purchase vapes (e-cigarettes) at school. The only reason you found out is because your 15-year-old daughter tattled after becoming upset that her brother would not give her half of the loot to serve as hush money. How do you address each child?
- Scenario 3: Your 21-year-old daughter comes home from college and excitedly shares that she met a new guy on Tinder, and she plans to marry him next month. She then reveals that she will be quitting school, despite only having 1 year left to complete her bachelor’s degree. (She does not see the need for her degree any longer, as her fiancé is rich, or so she has been told.) She has decided to throw away the career plans and dream wedding she has planned since she was 10 years old because now she finally has her Prince Charming, and her life is all set!
Your combined answers for each scenario must be at least 150 words, for a minimum of 450 words for the entire assignment (not including the title and reference pages).
Answers:
Scenario 1: The child in this scenario is in the preoperational stage of cognitive development, which is characterized by egocentrism and a lack of understanding of others’ perspectives. To address the situation, I would first separate my daughter from the other child and give her a chance to calm down. Then, I would explain to her that what she did was wrong and hurtful, and help her understand how the other child might have felt. I would encourage her to apologize to the child and return the toy. Since punishment is generally not effective for young children, I would focus on teaching my daughter empathy and social skills, such as sharing and taking turns. I would also model positive behavior for her and praise her when she interacts with others in a kind and respectful manner.
Scenario 2: The child in this scenario is in the formal operational stage of cognitive development, which means that they have developed abstract reasoning and are capable of planning for the future. To address the situation, I would have a conversation with my son about the seriousness of stealing and the risks associated with vaping. I would explain to him that his actions have consequences and that he needs to make better choices in the future. Rather than punishing him, I would help him come up with a plan to make amends, such as returning the money and apologizing to me for taking it. I would also talk to my daughter about the importance of honesty and encourage her to continue to communicate openly with me in the future. Additionally, I would educate both of my children about the dangers of vaping and the importance of making healthy choices.
Scenario 3: The child in this scenario is a young adult in the post-formal stage of cognitive development, which means that they have developed critical thinking skills and are capable of making complex decisions. To address the situation, I would first express my concerns about my daughter’s decision and ask her to explain her reasoning. I would listen to her perspective and try to understand her thought process. Then, I would share my own perspective and offer guidance, without being too controlling or dismissive of her feelings. I would encourage her to think about the long-term consequences of her decision and to consider alternatives, such as finishing her degree before getting married. I would also suggest that she take some time to think about her decision before making any final plans. Rather than using punishment or coercion, I would focus on being supportive and providing guidance as my daughter navigates this important decision.
