Why Control Hurts
Manipulative parenting breeds emotional suffering, whether seen on the outside or not. Dependency on parental approval, fear of lack of it, fear of failing, and anxiety to fulfill parental expectations are the source of confusion, depression, suicide, addictions, unhappiness, inability to trust, aggression, and illness.
Chua measures success in terms of prestige instead of in terms of joy and inner connection. Caught in her own dependency on approval, she molds her daughters in an effort to make herself look good, robbing them of the ability to be themselves.
We can raise children who are not only powerful and successful on the outside, but also peaceful and joyous on the inside. Such a path is devoid of coercion, yet full of passion and immersion in life opportunities. It also includes protecting the child from forces that thwart her freedom to source herself authentical
Is there a difference between manipulative parenting and motivational parenting? I believe that children need clear expectations and firm discipline.
