Question

Should parents be a child’s disciplinarian, or their best friend?

Answer 1

It depends. In my opinion I would say both, but it matters on what family you are born into. Some parents deserve children, but others shouldn't. Yes, you should discipline a child though only when they did something wrong, that way they learn it as a lesson to not do it again. Though so be their best friend as well, a person to trust and be depended on so your child would come to you if they need something.

Answer 2

In most cases, neither. A disciplinarian parent is probably an ineffective parent, because their child is more likely resist either voluntarily or subconsciously to authority that is deemed excessive. A "best friend" parent is likely ineffective because they will altogether lack the authority necessary to properly raise and educate a child. A child needs reasonably strict guidance and restrictions in addition to freedoms and privileges. This will lead to a more balanced upbringing and a more balanced product (child). In short, the best is something between the two.

I tend to lean more towards the former, simply because a parent and a best friend are usually two altogether distinct positions in a child's life. Not always, of course, and it largely depends on the individual relationship. Additionally, that is not to say that parents should not be close to their children (perhaps closer than a best friend, since a parents presumably lives with their child). But their purpose, their role, and their "hierarchical status"/authority is unique to each position.

Step-by-step explanation:

Just my opinion, but I hope it helps :)