Source: Kathleen Noonan, Courier Mail
How many of us can relate to the following scenario;
“Mummy and Daddy, both professionals, come home at 6.30 at night tired. They are older than any generation of parents has been before. Little Johnny feels neglected so is likely to push the boundaries. They are tired and feel guilty so what do they do with the small amount of quality time with Johnny? They put up with demands and behaviour they shouldn’t put up with.”
The above scenario sounds familiar to many of us, and as a result the currency of guilt exchange is greater tolerance of unacceptable behaviour and buying them things as a form of compensation.
Dr Alec Sigman, psychologist, writer, researcher and father of four – aged from 6 to 19 – says today’s parents are creating a generation of little emperors and it’s time to regain control.
Sigman advises us against…
- Putting a television in a young child’s bedroom
- Working long hours
- Allowing children to be disrespectful to you with fewer boundaries because you are guilty and tired
- Too much internet use without a parent watching
- Allowing alcohol at children’s parties under the legal age
- Trying to be your child’s best friend – that’s a cop out as a parent
For more information on Dr Aric Sigman or his latest book The Spoilt Generation, visit www.aricsigman.com .
An APS psychologist has the training to provide professional advice in the area of children’s and adolescents behaviour. For more information contact Bulimba Psychology on 3899 1455, alternatively contact the APS on 1800 333 497 or visit the APS at www.psychology.org.au.
