The 8 characteristics of positive parenting
These are the most characteristic aspects of positive parenting applied to parenting.
Positive parenting is the recently developed educational modality that is increasingly applied and recommended by psychology professionals.
It is based on an idea as simple as, considering the historical evolution of parenting models, revolutionary: it proposes parenting without violence or authoritarian behaviors based on unilateralism.
If you are interested in knowing more about this way of understanding parenting, read on; here we will talk about the main characteristics of positive parenting.
What are the main characteristics of positive parenting?
Positive parenting is a way of looking at parenting that promotes the concept of Good Parenting. Where other homeschooling models assumed that children are "unfinished" versions of adults, this approach defends the idea that the rights and views of children should be respected.
This does not mean agreeing with them in everything or not setting limits and rules, but starting from the assumption that children are "unfinished" versions of adults.Rather, it is based on the assumption that they themselves should be involved in good family dynamics so that they feel integrated and happy, enjoying an environment that promotes their physical and psychological development.
This way of supporting and caring for children is increasingly used throughout the world and is based on a series of relatively simple characteristics that should be applied daily in the education and upbringing of the little ones.
1. Affection
According to experts in educational and child psychology, positive parenting has as its essential structure the affective bond with children, an affection that should be shown openly whenever possible to make them feel loved.. Many parents fall into the trap of expressing only negative emotions as a result of the frustration and stress that parenting sometimes causes them.
The affection and love we give our children is very necessary for them to grow up physically and mentally healthy, and it is an indispensable element that contributes very positively to shape their future personality as adults.
The signs of affection can be physical, such as hugs and kisses, or verbal, i.e., congratulations on accomplishments.In other words, congratulations on achievements of any kind or complimentary comments about their person. Neither of these two ways of expressing affection should be neglected.
2. Care that goes beyond survival needs.
In addition to an upbringing based on affection and love, care in any area of a child's life is also of great importance, care in any area of the child's life is also of great importance in a positive parenting model..
This translates into a global attention to the child's well-being, as well as to any alteration or discomfort he or she may present, whether at a personal, social, health or academic level.
Caring also has to do with serving as a guide and role model so that in the future our children will become men and women who live with well-being and fulfillment.
Of course, it is not advisable to be permanently "in charge" of our children, it is not advisable to be permanently "on top" of the little ones in those contexts in which they can learn on their own in a safe way.This is part of the stimulating experience of learning from the engine of one's own curiosity.
3. Respect
The respect is essential in any interpersonal relation and acquires a great importance when we speak of the education of the children, who learn daily integrate the values and the guidelines of behavior that they assimilate in house.
Being respectful with our children, that is, with their opinions, approaches, preferences and tastes, will also help the child grow up with a good level of self-esteem and feeling valued by his or her family. Corrections should be made in a clear and assertive manner, but without ignoring the child's ideas, opinions and beliefs. their ideas, opinions and beliefs, and without teasing.
4. Rules and limits
The aforementioned care and protection should not be lacking in any home whose parents want to practice positive parenting; however, to achieve this it is also important to establish rules and limits.
The establishment of rules and limits based on respect and the fulfillment of daily obligations will help us to educate our children. will help us to educate our children in a positive, logical and non-violent way, but we must set an example and comply with them.But we must give example and fulfill them ourselves or, in the case that certain norms do not apply to the adults, it must be clear to them the reason for this.
5. Avoid physical punishment
Positive parenting is based on applying sanctions when necessary and always avoiding physical punishment to which previous generations have sometimes been subjected.
These sanctions are always based on the best interests of the child and are intended to help the child learn proportionately from his or her mistakes. aim to ensure that the child learns proportionately from his or her mistakes..
6. Communication
A fluid and open communication with our children is the basis for establishing a quality emotional and affective bond, and also allows us to participate in their lives and to know their inner world in depth.
Talking daily with our sons or daughters about their worries, their problems and showing support for their difficulties support for their difficulties, achievements or goals is the best way to is the best way to contribute positively to their physical and intellectual development, as well as to their self-esteem.
7. Involving the child
Children who participate in the decisions that are taken in the family context.In this way, they grow up with a more positive attitude and support than those children who are never taken into account at all.
Similarly, when there are minor family conflicts related to disagreements or conflicting opinions, it is advisable to reach an agreement that satisfies all parties involved.
8. Parental Responsibility
Parental responsibility is the basis of positive parenting, and is based on the joint application of all the characteristics mentioned above.
By practicing parental responsibility with our children on a daily basis we will achieve a legitimized authority before thembased on respect, affection, care and many positive elements, rather than on fear, violence or coercion.
Are you interested in professional psychological support?
At Adhara Psychology we attend people of all ages intervening from therapeutic resources such as Mindfulness, meditation or training in emotional management, all from a humanistic approach. We attend in person at our center located in Madrid, and also online.
(Updated at Apr 14 / 2024)