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What to Do When You Differ In Parenting Styles 

Having opposing parenting styles is common and can be a problem between couples whether they are married or not. Some people have an ideal kind of parent they want to be while others become parents even before they are ready. It becomes frustrating when one parent thinks how they are raising their kid is right and their partner opposes it. For instance, one person may believe that being strict is the right way while the other thinks it is not. Regardless of your differences in parenting styles, you must keep in mind that both of you must work together to raise kids since you both participated in birthing them. Let us look at some solutions to opposing parenting styles. 

Be Clear About Your Parenting Styles 

Most couples don’t align in parenting styles but it is crucial to know the habits each bring from childhood and then deliberately decide how they want to parent. Parents should understand that having two perspectives can be an advantage if they look at it positively. A parent might have a certain opinion about raising children because that is how they were raised, but that does not me it is the right way, and neither does it mean it is the wrong way. It is wise to listen to the opinion of your partner and compromise to come up with what you both believe is right. What worked before might no longer be relevant today in your family. Therefore, find a common ground and work through it to develop the best style. 

Avoid Criticizing Each Other Inform Of Children

In case you bump into your spouse treating your child in a way that you don’t like, don’t hesitate to take immediate action by shouting or arguing with them in front of the child; instead choose to let go and wait until you can have a private face-to-face conversation. Avoid criticizing your partner in front of the child because it is embarrassing and can also cause the child to become more rebellious. It is wrong for your children to witness parental disputes. While solving the matter privately saves the child, it also benefits your relationship as it prevents partners from spotlighting each other in a critical light. You might feel angry, but controlling your emotions in such a situation is very crucial in the upbringing of your children. 

See a Therapist

It is common for differences in parenting styles to cause arguments and conflicts. If s strict parent is tied with a non-strict parent, couples therapy may help them come to an understanding. Don’t allow differences in parenting style to destroy how you relate to your partner or even break your marriage. Talk to experts in couples counseling in Westchester NY to get an impartial opinion. Couples therapists have professional knowledge of issues that cause conflicts in marriages including parenting. They can guide you on how to improve your parenting style or come to an understanding without causing conflict. 

In conclusion, just like infidelity and poor communication, differences in parenting styles can destroy a marriage too. It might be hard for two people who come from different backgrounds with different childhood experiences to agree on the way to raise kids. However, it can be easier if both parties decide to sit and discuss the right way not putting too much emphasis on how they were raised. It is good to correct each other but avoid doing it in front of the children. It is also advisable to seek professional help from a therapist when you cannot agree on parenting styles.