Quote:
Originally Posted by Griff
It is often the same parents as thud85 describes. They don't have consistent expectations for behavior so the kids are confused and out of control. You see them laughing and supporting the kids awful behavior one time, but then when they're tired or grouchy the smacking starts.
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This is true.
Proper discipline isn't being a hard ass, it's setting consistent expectations for your kids. Kids actually like to know what the rules are and generally want to obey them. They feel secure when they know where they stand. Sometimes they test the rules, and they actually want to be punished when they break them. It confirms to them that they understood the rule in the first place. The hard part for parents is always enforcing the rules consistently. It's upsetting and difficult for kids when they don't know what the rules are. When behavior is OK one day and not OK the next day. Parents must be consistent.