What Does It Take To Be a Good Parent Assignment, Essay Example

The issue of what does it take to be a good parent is contentious, insofar as the thematic remains susceptible to subjective interpretations. One may contend that a good parent entails instilling discipline and work ethic in children, such that in the future they will not be adverse to the difficulties of everyday life. Another perspective may emphasize a carefree childhood, since adulthood is littered with obstacles. These are clear individual truth claims as to what constitutes a successful parent. In addition, one may also include intra-cultural differences: some cultures may have a specific image of what a good parent is, for example, a mother at home and a father in the labor force. All these interpretations point to a clear conflict of values and social mores when it comes to attempting to determine a successful recipe for parenthood. In this regard, it could be stated that such a successful recipe does not exist.

Nevertheless, such viewpoints can be considered to be symmetrical to the extent that they all emphasize a certain dimension of practice. That is to say, they stress the proper praxis of parenthood. Simultaneously, they do not take into account the emotional dimension of parenthood. In this regard, it can be argued that there is a clear and healthy absolute to the parenthood process: the centrality of love. The love that the parent demonstrates for their children is not relative to any cultural mores or norms. This is a purely instinctual and emotive bond, which is necessary to establish a healthy relationship. Despite whatever practices of parenthood may be argued for, an emotional foundation based on love remains a crucial object of parenthood, since it re-affirms the unique bond between the parent and their progeny.

Hence, despite the various techniques of parenthood that may exist, it is the simple emotional bond of love that best defines parenthood. Love becomes the foundation according to which a successful parent structures their relationship, and with this foundation established, parenthood realizes its objectives.