Discussion Post
Part I
i. What are some historical factors that contributed to lay beliefs on parenting during your parents' and grandparents' generations? What are modern influences that impact beliefs of today's parents?
ii. What are some advantages and disadvantages of parental emphasis theories and child-emphasis theories? Explain your preference.
Part II
i. As you have matured into adulthood, how have your ideas about parenting changed? How are these beliefs similar and different from those of your parents? DO NOT ANSWER THIS ONE
ii. What is a belief you once had (lay theory) about parenting that you now know to be false? Provide anecdotal and evidence-based evidence to support your current beliefs about parenting.
Part III
i. Explain how the idea of "nature and nurture" could put an end to the long-term debate of "nature or nurture?"
ii. What are some potential parenting challenges that may arise between parents who have significantly different attachment experiences in their families of origin. How might these challenges best be navigated to avoid detriment to the family relationships?
Part IV
i. Considering the significance of adverse childhood experiences, in what ways are pervasive issues (such as poverty) detrimental? How do effects of chronic issues compare to those of single incident traumas (such as the death of a parent)?
ii. What are some common parenting challenges faced by low socioeconomic status (SES) and high SES families? In your opinion, which group of children fares worse? Explain your response.
Part V
i. Suppose you are working with parents of another culture who consistently, and ineffectively, discipline their children in ways that opposes your beliefs. Share an example of how you would address this situation without making generalizations. How might a mental health worker with a Christian worldview that aligns with GCU's Biblical principles handle this situation?"
ii. How do your religious beliefs influence your beliefs about parenting? Has this changed over time? Explain what has, or has not, contributed to possible changes.
Part VI
i. Describe a scenario that demonstrates how modern medical technology may complicate the transition to parenting. Be sure to consider biological, psychological, and social factors.
ii. According to Teicher (2002) from Parenting: A Dynamic Perspective, our brains are sculpted by our early experiences. What unique challenges might exist for parents who have adopted preschool-aged children who have experienced unstable, inconsistent environments? What are some common behavioral characteristics of these children that may contribute to these challenges?
Part VII
i. From a developmental perspective, what challenges do toddlers and teens have in common? How do they each handle these frustrations? Elaborate on biological and environmental factors that contribute to these challenges.
ii. How might homosexual parents influence their children differently than heterosexual parents? What are some potential advantages and disadvantages of same-sex perspectives?
Part VIII
i. How does Western culture differ from other cultures whose extended families are typically more involved? Share at least two advantages and disadvantages.
ii. In what ways does our culture perpetuate the stigma of many non-traditional family structures? Does this lead to the assumption that traditional families are more functional? How is this harmful and what might be done to prevent this?
The response must include a reference list. Using one-inch margins, double-space, Times New Roman 12 pnt font and APA style of writing and citations.