Parental Influences

This is a book by pastor William Bacon that attempts to cover a wide range of issues that parents must confront in helping their children become responsible Christians. It takes the controversial position that corporeal punishment, although it should be avoided, must be used when children do not readily accept other forms of inducement to obey parental authority. Not everyone will agree with its premises, but it provides critical information on the justification for physical discipline. William Bacon believed in the concept of a household "absolute government"; the child must understand that ultimate law and justice rest with the parents, and refusal of requests by children cannot be tolerated. Bacon also believed in what we today would call behaviorism: that the human child, like other creatures, can only attain a productive life through guidance that is clear, steadfast, and goal-orientated. The natural tendency in man is to disobey, and if his tendencies are not checked, he will fall into moral ruin. Consequently, Bacon does not hesitate in condemning parents who are too lazy or too weak to adequately discipline their children. Discipline to him meant whatever it took to make children conform to their parents' requests. Although harsh treatment is distasteful, Bacon believes not only will this form of correction benefit society, but will also, according to his analysis of Biblical scripture, immeasurably help the child's soul.