Final answer:
It is true that knowledge alone is not sufficient to develop parenting competence. Parenting requires practical skills, empathy, and understanding the child's development. Parenting competence comes from a balance of knowledge and practical engagement with the child.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, knowledge alone is not sufficient to develop parenting competence. While knowledge is a core component of competence, parenting is a complex task that involves practical skills, empathy, and patience, all of which cannot be learned solely from books or research. Just as a parent would seek a doctor for their child's medical treatment due to the doctor's expertise, teachers undertake a significant education to become trained experts in childhood education. Proponents of parental education might argue that parents know their children best, but Erikson's theory of psychosocial development emphasizes stages where the child's need extends beyond the parent's intuitive understanding, such as the adolescent's task of feeling competent, a complex psychological achievement. Moreover, research by figures like Baumrind and Bayley suggests parenting styles and the maintenance of intellectual ability have tangible impacts on an adolescent’s development and competence. It is evident that while knowledge is crucial, the application of that knowledge through practical engagement, emotional intelligence, and understanding the unique developmental needs of a child is key to effective parenting. This reflects the necessity for a balance of knowledge and skill in developing parenting competence.