Abigail Virginia (2802494263)

“Hey, listen to me!” These words, coming from a parent of a young relative, jolted me to my core. As someone who values respectful communication and rarely encounters such forceful behavior, this was such an unsettling experience. I have always believed that it is profoundly disrespectful and rude, to compel someone to listen, especially when it involves a child. This phenomenon is not uncommon in many Asian and Indonesian cultures though, where harsh parenting methods are often a legacy passed down through generations. My parents, for instance, would often remind me, “You were lucky to avoid that dictatorial parenting.” This statement often leads me to question: Why perpetuate the cycle of this harsh discipline? Why not embrace positive reinforcement, which is both nurturing and effective? After all, we are not animals, and even animals display more affection towards their youngsters than some human parents do.

The Impact of Harsh Parenting

Let me illustrate this with a story about a ten-year-old named Joy. During an interaction with him, it was disheartening to witness the extent of control exerted over him by his father. Joy was frequently shouted at and interrupted, which was distressing to observe. Every time Joy attempted to speak, his father would intervene with discouraging words and commands such as, “Look at me when you’re talking” or “Listen to me.” The father’s constant interruptions not only stifled Joy’s attempts to communicate but also created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety.

One particular moment stands out when I asked Joy about his friends and the games he played at school, he responded, “I don’t have friends at school; I don’t play with them.” His response was accompanied by a glance towards his father, seeking reassurance. This interaction was telling of the power dynamics at play. The father’s frequent interruptions and authoritative presence clearly affected Joy’s ability to engage openly. The constant need for his father’s approval and the visible fear in Joy’s eyes highlighted the emotional and psychological toll of such parenting methods.

This experience led me to ponder the question of whether the teaching methods we implement at school, particularly those aimed at building confidence and communication skills, can be effective when children face such adversities at home. If the home environment is hostile and unkind, will our educational efforts truly make a difference? This concern underscores a significant challenge for educators: addressing the impact of harsh parenting on a child’s educational experience.

The Role of Positive Reinforcement

Observations of societal norms reveal that harsh reactions to children’s mistakes are not isolated incidents. It is common to hear parents criticize their children harshly when accidents occur. Phrases like, “See what you’ve done!” or “I told you it would happen” are frequent responses when children fall or break something. Instead of offering comfort or asking if the child is okay, these reactions focus on blame and criticism. This approach not only fails to provide emotional support but can also leave lasting negative impressions on a child.

Then the magic question arises: how does a person become so bitter and negative that a child’s mistakes are seen as opportunities for blame rather than chances for learning? This phenomenon often stems from a lack of understanding about the importance of positive reinforcement—a concept that is crucial in child development. Positive reinforcement involves offering encouragement and constructive feedback, helping children understand that mistakes are part of the learning process.

Research has consistently shown that positive reinforcement is a key component of effective parenting and education. According to developmental psychologists, children who receive positive reinforcement are more likely to develop a growth mindset—a belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset not only fosters resilience but also enhances academic performance and personal development.

Moreover, positive reinforcement helps build a child’s self-esteem. When children are praised for their efforts and achievements, they develop a sense of competence and confidence. This, in turn, encourages them to take on new challenges and persevere in the face of difficulties. In contrast, children who are frequently criticized or blamed may develop a fear of failure and a reluctance to try new things, which can hinder their overall development.

The Importance of a Supportive Home Environment

Another thing to point out, in order for a children to thrive, they need both a supportive home environment and effective educational methods. Positive reinforcement from home complements the educational strategies taught by teachers, employed at school. When children are encouraged and praised for their efforts and achievements, they are more likely to develop confidence and resilience. This, in turn, enhances their ability to engage in learning and personal growth.

As future educators, we face the challenge of addressing the impact of negative parenting on our students. It is not enough to implement innovative curricula and teaching methods; we must also advocate for supportive parenting practices. Parents and teachers must work together to create a consistent environment that fosters growth and learning. This collaboration is essential in ensuring that children receive the reinforcement they need to succeed both academically and personally.

A supportive home environment is characterized by open communication, emotional support, and positive reinforcement. Parents who provide a nurturing environment help their children develop strong emotional and social skills. This support can include praising effort and progress, providing encouragement during challenging times, and offering constructive feedback that focuses on improvement rather than failure. When children feel supported and valued at home, they are better equipped to handle the challenges they face in school and beyond.

Addressing the Misconceptions About Educational Responsibility

There is a common misconception that teachers are solely responsible for a child’s academic success and behavior. Some parents, often referred to as “nonchalant,” tend to blame educators when their children misbehave or perform poorly in school. This shifting of blame overlooks the crucial role of a positive home environment in a child’s development. Parents invest considerable time and resources into their children’s education, yet they sometimes fail to recognize that early formative years are critical in shaping a child’s principles and behavior.

Children are molded during their elementary years, and the values and behaviors established during this time can be challenging to change later in life. Therefore, both parents and educators must balance their roles to provide a consistent and supportive educational experience. It is essential for parents to understand that their involvement and approach to discipline have a significant impact on their child’s ability to succeed in school.

The misconception that teachers alone are responsible for a child’s success can lead to unrealistic expectations and unnecessary conflict between parents and educators. Teachers are indeed responsible for delivering quality education and fostering a positive learning environment, but they cannot compensate for the lack of support and guidance at home. It is crucial for parents to recognize their role in their child’s education and work collaboratively with teachers to address any issues that arise.

Bridging the Gap Between Home and School

As future educators, we have an important role in bridging the gap between home and school environments. We must advocate for positive reinforcement not only within the classroom but also in the homes of our students. Educating parents about the benefits of positive reinforcement and its impact on a child’s development is crucial. It is not about excusing every mistake but rather using mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth. By fostering a supportive environment where children can learn from their mistakes without fear of harsh judgment, we can help them develop into confident and responsible individuals.

One effective approach could be organizing workshops or seminars for parents on positive parenting techniques. These sessions could provide practical strategies for offering encouragement and constructive feedback. Additionally, creating open lines of communication between parents and teachers can help ensure that both parties are working towards common goals for the child’s development.

Collaborative efforts between educators and parents can lead to more effective strategies for supporting children’s growth and development. Regular parent-teacher conferences, for example, can provide opportunities for discussing a child’s progress, addressing any concerns, and developing joint strategies for improvement. By working together, parents and teachers can create a cohesive support system that enhances the child’s educational experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the challenge of harsh parenting and its impact on a child’s education is significant. Positive reinforcement plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes learning and growth. As future educators, we must recognize the importance of collaborating with parents to create a consistent and encouraging atmosphere for children. By addressing the issues of negative reinforcement and advocating for positive parenting practices, we can help ensure that our educational efforts are effective and that our students have the opportunity to thrive.

Creating a supportive environment where children feel valued and encouraged will ultimately lead to their success both academically and personally. It is through this partnership between home and school that we can truly make a difference in shaping the future of our students. By embracing positive reinforcement and fostering a culture of support and encouragement, we can help children develop the confidence and resilience they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives.

References:

Dictionary.com. (2021, April 24). What It Means To Get And Give “Positive Reinforcement.” Dictionary.com. https://www.dictionary.com/e/tech-science/positive-reinforcement/

Gregory, L. (2022, December 2). How to Use Positive Reinforcement in the Classroom. Mybrightwheel.com. https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/positive-reinforcement-in-the-classroom

Isnatil Husna, & Marlina Marlina. (2024). Efektivitas Positive Reinforcement untuk Mengurangi Perilaku Mengganggu bagi Anak Lamban Belajar. EDUKATIF JURNAL ILMU PENDIDIKAN, 6(1), 760–769. https://doi.org/10.31004/edukatif.v6i1.6359

Bakar, N. A., & Zainal, M. S. (2020, March 29). The Effects of Using Positive Reinforcement Techniques to Reduce Disruptive Behavior of Pupil with ADHD. Series.gci.or.id; Redwhite Press. https://doi.org/10.32698/GCS-04265