Parental Behavior Specific behaviors influence children Direct instruction Modeling Feedback

Direct Instruction Explain to children what to do…. WHEN WHY

Explain Explain the link between emotion and behavior. –Coach behavior –Explain alternatives –Explain how our actions affect others

Coaching Particularly powerful influence when paired with modeling.

Modeling Learning by observing parent –Learn what should be done –Learn what should not be done (counterimitation)

Inhibition—if we see someone punished for a behavior we are less likely to exhibit that behavior Disinhibition—increase in observed behaviors (parents fight so child fights)

Feedback Reinforcement—increases likelihood of repeating the behavior Punishment—decreases likelihood of repeating behavior while the punisher is present Negative reinforcement trap—often with mother and son

Negative Reinforcement Trap Mom: “Take out the trash.” Son: argues, complains, whines Mom: gives in

Punishment Immediate Consistent Explain why and what to do to avoid it next time Warm relationship with punisher

Time Out Use caution Purpose of time out Use induction Learn alternative behaviors for future use

So…Influence Children by Direct instruction Modeling behavior that is valued Do not model behavior you do not want the child to learn Giving feedback Using authoritative parenting style

Interactive Influences Parent and child respond to each other and elicit behaviors Influence of temperament Patterns of interaction emerge

Cultural Variations in Parenting Warmth Control

Styles of Grandparenting Formal Fun-seeking Distant Dispensing-family- wisdom Surrogate parent

Summary Parents influence behavior of children. Children influence behavior of parents. Wise adults are aware of those influences Consider temperament Consider culture Consider grandparents’ role as family members