Which approach to child rearing is likely to bear better results, praise or punishment? Perhaps the answer depends on your view of human nature. If you believe that people are basically good, maybe you prefer the former. If you think that people can’t help but to sin, then probably you think the latter is more efficacious. Or perhaps you have had experience with one or the other, and your opinion is derived from empirical evidence.

                “You can draw more bees with honey than vinegar.” Punishment control behaviour in the short run but the long term lessons are likely to inculcate the values of fear, dishonesty, violence, and revenge. Praise, on the other hand, is more likely to cultivate positive values such as a strong moral sense and confidence. We may need force to control animal behaviour, but it takes praise and hoonor to form a human being of conscience.

                                                               

—Adapted from Make Your Point 20 —

By: Gina R. Bagtas |T-II | Limay National High School