Why does my Child Misbehave and What can I do about It? Dr Sunil Vaid, Diamond Books, Pp 150, Rs 100
In this book, on how to control a misbehaved child, the author, a paediatrician, covers some very relevant aspects of what misbehaviour is, why it should be curbed, what are the causes, and what are the solutions.
Misbehaviour is behaviour contrary to what the societal mores expect of you. Interpretations and perceptions regarding any actions of the child depend upon the social conditioning and personal experience of the onlooker. What might seem to one as a child’s mild transgression would be viewed as severe misbehaviour by another person. Some people, especially parents, consider their child’s misbehaviour as a part of the normal growing up process. The author cites the case of a 3+ child who joins the school for the first time and throws tantrums till the headmaster takes him out of the class and slaps him hard on his cheek.
His prime advice is that discipline should not only be enforced but cherished also. Pampering and harshness have to be given a wide berth and left alone in order to bring up a well-behaved child.
(Diamond Pocket Books (P) Ltd, X-30 Okhla Industrial Area Phase II, New Delhi: 110 020; www.diamondbook.in)