I want to show you some research by sociologist Reuben Hill. Hill’s research revealed how different parenting styles led to different responses among children. There are 4. Let's start with the worst type.

Parent is Absent

Often times, when the topic of absent parenting we thinking of the parent who is addicted to drugs or alcohol. Yes this is sometimes true…But did you know that some absent parents are those who are extremely successful in their careers?

Most people know who Steve Jobs is.
The man who changed everyone one of our lives.
The iPhone completely changed how we communicate, learn, and play games.

In an August 3, 2018 People Magazine ran a a story titled:

“Steve Jobs’ Daughter Recall Their Troubled Relationship:‘MyExistence Ruined His Streak’ - People Magazine August 3, 2018

Within this article Lisa Brennan-Jobs talks about how her dad at first denied that he was even her father. (ADNA test would reveal Steve Jobs was in fact her dad), to trying to build a relationship with him. Look at this,

“For a long time I hoped the if I played one role, my father would take the corresponding role. I would be the beloved daughter; he would be the indulgent father. If I had observed his as he was, or admitted to myself what I saw, I would have known that he would not do this.” - People Magazine August 3, 2018

She goes on to say…
“For him, I was a blot on a spectacular ascent, as our story did not fit with he narrative of greatness and virtue he might have wanted for himself. My existence ruined his streak.”-PeopleMagazine August 3, 2018

When Parents…

Show no interest = Kids become Self sufficient
Flip-Flop emotions = Kids become Emotionally hardened
Uninvolved = Kids become Rebellious
Lack follow-through = Kids become Underachievers
Lack boundaries = Kids become Insecure

Hill sums up this type of parenting saying,

“Children brought up in this home environment tend to rank lowest across all life domains. These children tend to lack self-control, have low self-esteem and are less competent than their peers.” R. Hill

Parent as Friend
When Parents…

Overprotect = Kids become Spoiled
Give in = Kids become Manipulative
are Desperate for harmony = Kids become Disrespectful
alway Rescue = Kids become Irresponsible
are Too helpful = Kids become Helpless

“Life lessons are often learned later in life at a higher cost.” R. Hill

Parent as Drill Sergent

We know what this parent says.
Most of us have said this.
I’ve probably said it today.

“Because I said so.” - Every Parent Ever.

When Parents…

Dominate = Kids become Rebellious
Have no flexibility = Kids become Afraid to fail
Critical = Kids become Overly sensitive to criticism

If this is the only way you parent you can…
“[Expect your child] to be obedient and proficient, but they rank lower in happiness, social competence and self-esteem.” R. Hill

This next parenting approach is the target.

Parent as Coach
When Parents….

Love = Kids become Secure
Encourage = Kids become Confident
Comfort = Kids become Compassionate
Are Sincere = Kids become Honest

As a parent we have been tasked to get more out of kids than they think they can give.
Some times that includes a high-five.
Some times that means we grab them by the jersey, pull them close, and get in their ear.
Some times that means they need to set the bench.

This idea of a coach is how Jesus loves and leads us.

Jesus leads us to love in ways that we didn’t think possible.
Jesus leads us to forgive when we don’t think we can.
Jesus leads us to lead…Even when we are way over our head.
Jesus completely and fully LOVES us up.

May we be like Jesus.