#282: Twist on Golden Rule

Here’s an interesting parenting twist on the golden rule. Psychologist Dr. Joshua Straub suggests that, when it comes to your son, you replace the word “treat” with the word “understand.” So the golden rule then becomes “understand your son the way you want to be understood.” Now, understanding your son may seem like an impossible task– especially if he’s a teenager! But here’s some ideas to start. When your son gets upset over something that seems unimportant to you, instead of saying “there’s nothing to be mad about,” put yourself in your son’s shoes. Most likely, there’s an underlying fear or insecurity behind your son’s anger. Seek to understand. And in turn, your son may begin to understand your side, as well. For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.