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Which of the following would wise parents do as their adolescent children push for control?

a. Foster open communication and negotiation.
b. Impose strict rules and boundaries.
c. Completely grant full control without guidance.
d. Isolate their children from external influences.

User Elephant
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Final answer:

Wise parents would foster open communication and negotiation with their adolescent children, aligning with the authoritative parenting style which encourages self-esteem and social skills. Strict rules without flexibility, full control without guidance, and isolation from external influences are not recommended approaches.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, wise parents would be most likely to foster open communication and negotiation with their adolescent children as they push for control. This approach aligns with the authoritative parenting style, which has been associated with high self-esteem and social skills in children. This parenting style involves setting reasonable demands and consistent limits, expressing warmth and affection, and considering the child's point of view. Rules are set and explained, but there is flexibility and willingness to make exceptions. Healthy parent-child relationships have been linked to positive outcomes such as better grades and fewer school behavior problems.

Research has shown that adolescents still regard their parents as significant influencers on their behavior, even as they start to value their peer group more. In fact, despite the myth that teens only listen to their friends, the reality suggests that parents remain the greatest influences, especially in areas of significant decision-making, like sexual behavior. It is therefore crucial for parents to engage in communication and negotiation, which fosters a setting for adolescents to safely explore their growing independence while still under parental guidance.

Parents should avoid imposing strict rules without flexibility (authoritarian style) or granting full control without guidance (permissive or uninvolved styles), as these approaches do not typically foster the same positive outcomes. Isolating children from external influences is also not advised as it prevents the development of necessary social skills and coping mechanisms needed for real-world interactions.

User Sophie
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