Parenting Issues

Abstract

In the process of getting to know the child better, practitioners also need to learn more about the child’s family. This is essential, in part because how parents deal with their child’s behaviors will determine to a significant degree whether the behaviors lead to competent or incompetent social development in their children. Families are the most central and enduring influence in children’s lives (Schor, 2002), and are a major source of stability and support for the child. They promote a sense of being “capable” in the child (Howard, 2002). This is accomplished via routines, providing models, instruction, progressive expectations, providing choices, role taking opportunities, and doling out appropriate consequences (Howard, 2002).