Respect

Parents are always saying their children do not respect them. The only way to earn respect is to give it. This does not mean that if you treat someone with respect they will always respect you in return. It does mean that if you always treat someone with respect and then they do not reciprocate respect that at least you know that their disrespect is NOT because you did not earn it.

One problem is parents believe that respect should be automatic. That just because they are parents, they can speak to and treat their children any way they choose and still the child should respect them. Unfortunately, this usually is not the case. Should it be?

Parents are often stressed and unintentionally speak to their children in angry, insulting, and threatening ways. In fact these are often common strategies and attempts to change behaviors. These negative approaches are rarely effective unless children are very vulnerable and they still have negative long term effects.

Bottom line is everyone must earn respect. If parents treat their child with disrespect just because they can then they will not earn respect from their children.

Children are dependent and vulnerable and will tolerate many things because they have no choice, but there is a reason so many children display disrespect as they get older, stronger, and more independent. DISRESPECT IS NOT A PHASE!

Please understand the importance of being respectful to your children. This does not equal permissiveness. It simply means saying and doing what you need to do as a responsible parent without being disrespectful to your child. If a parent feels confused about this then please ask or seek professional help to understand this concept. It WILL enhance your relationship with your children. It will teach one of the most valuable lessons in the world to your children and you will reap the wonderful reward of respect for a lifetime.