A parent can influence a child in several different ways. Actions that a parent takes, the activities they participate in with their children, and even the relationships they have within their family unit can positively shape a child’s behavior and character.

Some research has shown that having self-discipline may be based on how a child was raised and the actions of his or her parents. By setting boundaries, giving praise when appropriate, and encouraging good behavior (rather than punishing bad behavior), a parent can contribute to raising a responsible person with strong morals and values.

Setting boundaries

Children need to be aware that their parents are in command. Parents should establish regulations and boundaries for their children and enforce consequences if these standards are violated.

While it’s critical to set a good example, it’s also crucial for parents to implement those policies consistently and without exception. When youngsters go outside the lines, they must know that there are consequences.

Discipline

Disciplining a child is often associated with punishing them, and there’s plenty of controversy on how children should be disciplined. A big part of the controversy lies in how effective physical discipline, like spanking, really is in the development of children.

Studies have shown that effective discipline comes from several factors. Some of them include if the discipline comes from an adult with a strong affectionate bond and if the child perceives the punishment as fair.

Praise

Parents should praise their children for making good decisions and adhering to rules and regulations.

Praises help children know when they are performing or doing something well. The praise should encourage the children to continue said behavior. They should be praised genuinely, not just by saying “good job” without substance behind the words. For example, telling a child, “I really appreciate how you completed your homework,” goes a long way in encouraging said behavior.

Negative and positive behavior of parents

While parents have a powerful role in molding their children’s values and morals, how they behave will also shape how they behave.

Parents who exhibit poor or negative behavior traits have a strong chance of passing them on to their children. For example, parents that engage in substance abuse have a strong chance of negatively reinforcing said behavior to their children, who may think regular substance abuse is okay because they say their parents do it.

Alternatively, positive behavior parents exhibit will have a beneficial effect on children. This could be something like engaging in regular volunteer work or consistently helping others. Said behavior can positively impact children because they see how beneficial it is for their parents and society as a whole.

Role of Relationships

If your child has siblings, the role and dynamics of how they are treated in comparison to their siblings will impact their development.

For instance, if one child is favored over another, this can lead to competition amongst siblings for their parent’s affection. Alternatively, this could result in a self-esteem issue for a child if they feel they can’t measure up to their siblings.

Favoritism can also have a negative impact on the favored child as they might feel they have a sense of superiority over others both inside and outside of the family. This could make the child feel they can break the rules and don’t have to adhere to society’s standards because they think they’re better than everyone.

Raising successful children is tough. Parents can set their children on the right path through a balance of discipline, praise, and setting good examples.

Parents who want to raise responsible children should also understand the importance of their relationship with their children. A child’s self-discipline and moral values are influenced by how a parent acts, so being a positive role model is important.