Are you a strict parent or a lenient parent?

I've grown up with both. My dad was very strict and my mom was very lenient. It balanced out. Although I'm not a parent, I was a foster parent for 2 years and although I was strict I tried to be fair too. I think alot of parents tend to be too lenient and then when the child gets out of control they can't get the control back. Its a fine line to walk. LIVE IN PEACE

My children are grown and very productive law abiding citizens. I wasn't a tyrant and I wasn't lenient. You have to pick your battles. I used tough love when nessisary. Even if that meant turning them in to the police or school for things. I taught them if you are going to do the crime, you are going to do the time. I also taught them to respect others. Then there are things like not wanting to eat dinner. Okay don't eat dinner but you don't get a snack later. Your plate from dinner will be in the fridge. Heat that up if you get hungry but no snack. I have seen parents be strict over things that really don't matter. Then protect them from the big mistakes they make.

My mom wasn't strict at all, but my friend's parents were and she ended up becoming what they were trying to prevent. I think the more strict you are, the more you have to watch out for them trying to do things behind your back.