A Practical Guide for Raising a Self-Directed and Caring Child

About the Book

Countering the “Tiger Mother” parenting style, this research-based, practical guide provides an excellent framework for raising competent and compassionate children.

In an era of “helicopter” parents—moms and dads who constantly hover over their children to monitor and manage their lives—and our culture’s focus on personal gain and corporate greed, there is great need for a parenting guide that outlines how to raise children who are well adjusted. A Practical Guide for Raising a Self-Directed and Caring Child fills that void. In response to Amy Chua’s recent bestseller, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, psychologist Louis J. Lichtman, PhD, presents a compelling case for the notion that children will be more successful if they are self-directed rather than parent-controlled. Through anecdotes and research studies, Lichtman illustrates how to build a child’s self-esteem and delves into how parenting styles and disciplinary practices influence a child’s behavior and character.

Lichtman also gives special attention to the topics of achievement, parenting during the adolescent years, and how family structure impacts children. In addition, Lichtman discusses how to avoid common parenting mistakes, issues to consider before deciding to become a parent, and how to give children the best possible start in life.

Designed to help parents develop a set of guiding parenting principles, this guide is applicable to all situations and to children of all ages. A Practical Guide for Raising a Self-Directed and Caring Child offers a solid, comprehensive resource for today’s parents.

About the Author

Louis J. Lichtman, PhD, earned a BS degree in psychology from Brooklyn College in 1967, and a PhD in psychology from the University of Maine in 1971. Currently he is a professor of psychology at Alfred University, where he has taught for more than 40 years. He and his wife have two grown daughters.