This book represents a unique compilation of topics intended to help parents navigate the process of parenting so that they better understand their children and how to deal with them in constructive and growth-promoting ways. It includes several issues that parents deal with on a regular basis such as child temperament, resolving conflict, separation and divorce, discipline, raising boys to be good men, traits of healthy families, the role of culture in parenting, incarcerated parents, parenting and media, distinguishing praise from encouragement, identifying and responding to goals of misbehavior, using logical and natural consequences for unacceptable behavior, parenting styles and levels of awareness, knowing the difference between influence and control, and what children need. It also briefly discusses major developmental theories and how they can guide development including the process of change. The stages of development help parents to know what to expect at each stage and how to handle age/stage behaviors. The book also covers parental involvement and education and how important they are in developing parenting awareness and a positive working relationship with schools. Often parents don't feel that their voices are heard, so the book addresses parent advocacy and ways that can help empower parents.
