Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Tiger Mother Mode of Parenting?

Battle Hymn of the Tiger MotherAl Mohler reviews and interacts with this controversial book.  Here is part of his article:
Is she right? Is the Tiger Mother mode of parenting really superior? What should Christian parents think of this?

In one sense, statistics tell the story — or part of the story. There can be no question that Asian styles of parenting often produce remarkable high achievement in their children. Just look to the disproportionately high numbers of Asian students at the top universities and in the top ranks of their professions.

There can also be no doubt that Christians should share many of Amy Chua’s concerns about the dominant style of American parenting. The Bible makes parental authority a matter of clear concern and priority, and the discipline and nurture of children are clear biblical mandates to parents. Christian parents reading Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother will share many of Amy Chua’s complaints and concerns.

Nevertheless, there is a huge problem with her approach. The problem is not that it does not work, if the goal is to produce remarkable children who achieve the highest levels of worldly success. The problem is her aims.
Read the rest.  

2 comments:

Rich said...

Dr. Mohler's response is somewhat more subdued than I would have expected. The methods, goals, AND results spoken of strike me as nothing more than worldliness (a different kind than we're used to bemoaning, but still with a focus on worldly ways and success) and self-idolatry. Hard-working and focused are desirable traits to be sure, but, in the absence of grace, selflessness, and compassion, this form of parenting is just as bad as the overly permissive form criticized by the author.

sh said...

I like PJ O'Rourke's response better:

http://www.weeklystandard.com/articles/irish-setter-dad_555534.html?nopager=1

LOL!!!