Have you heard about inductive style in education?
Educational models are classified into four types: negligent, authoritarian, democratic and permissive.
In general terms, the negligent model is, by definition, not recommended; while the authoritarian is too repressive and the permissive overprotects excessively. Therefore, the democratic model It is the one that presents the most appropriate balance between communication and affection, the level of control and demand, and consideration of the child’s needs and interests.
However, to compensate for some of its shortcomings, an inductive style is proposed.
What does the inductive style of education consist of?
The main characteristics of the inductive style (or inductive discipline) are:
- High levels of demand and control with the child
- High level of affection and communication supported by dialogue, understanding and active listening.
- Takes into account the needs and interests of the child.
The main difference with the democratic model, which an inductive style comes to clarify, refers to the levels of demand and control, on which it places more emphasis.
Actually, they are similar disciplines. The difference lies in the model of authority, which is more lax in the case of democracy, where everything is based on consensus and dialogue. In this way, a symmetry of relationship between parents and children is established, which often turns out to be counterproductive and leads to behaviors of other less appropriate education models.
Induction is a philosophical concept that consists of extracting general principles or conclusions from particular observations or experiences. Therefore, in the inductive model, dialogue is a pillar, as it happens in the democratic one, but the rule or the final decision belongs to the parents.
Benefits of the inductive style
- Good skills in autonomy and self-control
- Good level of self-esteem
- Development of a sense of responsibility
- Safe family environment
- Less family conflicts
- Empathy development
- Recognition of authority
Guidelines for an inductive discipline
Someone who wants to understand and put into practice an inductive style of education must necessarily know the democratic one.
Let’s see some aspects that distinguish the inductive model:
- Reasonable authority
Established norms exist and are deeply reasoned through dialogue and explanation. However, they must be respected. To do this, the child must internalize them as reasonable. It is obvious to say it, but never, in any case and under any circumstances, should they violate the fundamental rights of the minor. - Participatory learning and obedience
The rules are decided with the participation of the people who are going to obey them, in a flexible but firm way. That is, they can be adapted depending on situations or contexts if both parties agree. - Development of autonomy and self-control
This model achieves acceptance of the rules and a good level of autonomy and self-control. As children grow, they will participate more in the elaboration of the rules and in their discussion. - Asymmetry relationship between parents and children
The sense of authority must be understood as a responsibility of the parent or parents in relation to the protection and satisfaction of the needs of the children. It is not up for discussion, parents are in charge of establishing rules and limits. Therefore, the relationship cannot be symmetrical.
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