Grounding techniques, parents consider this method of punishment to be the best, psychologist points out shortcomings

Sometimes parents have to work hard to teach discipline to their children. It is not that being in discipline or learning it is bad, but parents want to teach discipline to the child only for the better future of the child. Dr Keerthi Karanam, Consultant Psychiatrist, Care Hospital, Hyderabad has shared some important information on Grounding which can be very useful for parents.

What is the meaning of grounding

Grounding is a popular punishment that is often used by parents as a way of disciplining their children for misbehaving. Grounding includes restricting the child’s movement and activity, such as not allowing him to leave the house or do any work for a period of time. Dr Keerthi lists some of the reasons why parents may choose grounding as a form of punishment and gives parenting tips to deal with it.

to control behavior

Dr. Kirti says that parents may find the method of grounding very effective in controlling their children’s behavior and keeping them away from misbehavior. Parents feel that with the help of grounding, they can show their child the right path and prevent him from going on the wrong path.

teach responsibility

When parents limit their child’s activity and freedom and seek the help of grounding, it can help them feel responsible and accountable for their actions. In this way parents can make their child realize his mistake and can also teach him to take responsibility for his mistakes.

get a chance to talk

Grounding gives parents and the child an opportunity to talk to him about the behavior or misbehavior and ways to avoid this type of situation in the future. This can increase communication and understanding between parents and children.

explain the importance of the rule

Grounding can also be used to break a rule or to explain the importance of an established rule and to induce a sense of right behavior. For example, when a child breaks a rule, he can be kept away from any of his favorite activities as a punishment. Apart from this, grounding can also be used to protect the child from dangerous situations or people.

keep this in mind

Dr. Kirti says that parents should not use grounding just for discipline and there should be some moderation in it. Parents should also look at the child’s age, anger and the severity of the misbehavior before using grounding as a form of punishment. Apart from this, parents should keep the rules and their expectations clear to the child so that the child does not misbehave beforehand and there is no need for grounding.