Helping Your Child ThriveSýnishorn

BROKEN WINDOWS

At some point, almost every parent will seek advice on ways to improve their kids’ behavior. One of the most important – and perhaps most frequently overlooked – areas is the child’s environment at home.

Sociologists refer to a principle called the “broken-windows” theory to describe a community’s descent into crime. It works like this: If a broken window is left unrepaired, before long all the windows will be broken. A smashed window sends a message to the community that no one cares, and further vandalism will be ignored. And once these smaller offenses are tolerated, larger crimes soon take place as well.

But the reverse of this theory is also true. When a community improves its surroundings, crime rates drop. Police in one Virginia city discovered this when a housing project scheduled for demolition was cleaned up by a crew of volunteers. Trash was cleared, abandoned vehicles were removed, and overgrown grass was mowed. In the weeks that followed, the community was surprised to learn that robberies had dropped by 35 percent.

The premise behind the “broken-window” theory is relevant to individual households as well. Homes with appropriate discipline, structure, and cleanliness feel stable and safe to children. Research shows kids brought up in such environments are more likely to be in control themselves and to exhibit positive behavior. On the other hand, when children sense their surroundings are chaotic, their behavior tends to reflect that instability.

So, parents, see if you have any broken windows that the Lord can help you repair. Operate your home with structure and loving discipline. It could make a world of difference in your child’s behavior and sense of well-being.