The Parenting Pendulum

#2109

Today’s parents want a deeper relationship with their teen than they had with their own parents. It’s well-intentioned. But taken too far, the outcome will disappoint you.

Hi, I’m Mark Gregston … with Parenting Today’s Teens.

My dad, like yours, was focused on providing for his family. We always had food on the table and a roof over our head. But the relational side was more than lacking.

Then the ‘60s and ‘70s came along. We swooned over lyrics like “All You Need Is Love” … and started applying them to our parenting styles.

Neither extreme is good for our kids. So if you’ve allowed the pendulum too swing too far … it’s not too late to find a healthy balance between authority and relationship.

Love your teen. But don’t cross that slippery boundary and become his friend alone. To hold his heart … you need to remain his parent.