Book Being Reviewed:

Latham, G. (1994). The power of positive parenting: A wonderful way to raise children. Logan, UT: P&T Ink.

Reviewer:

Danielle Richards

Genre:
Self-Help

Subject Headings:

Family dynamics

Review:

This book applies behaviorist principles to parenting through the foundational concept that a child’s behavior is shaped by its consequences. When used effectively, positive reinforcement is the most powerful tool. The importance of a parent being calm and loving is underscored. Latham states that children appreciate a caregiver who is in control of their own behavior and offers techniques one can employ when feeling emotionally out of control. The first half of the book outlines the behavioral concepts that the book relies on. The second half of the book deals with common problematic behaviors that children (from newborns to teenagers) engage in. These include tantrums, lying, thumb sucking, toilet training, sibling rivalry, and substance abuse.

While parents are the intended audience of the book, elementary, middle and high-school teachers as well as school and mental health counselors will likely find the book useful. It is a worthwhile resource for therapists to recommend to clients. Additionally, the book is quite readable and highlights key points in text boxes alongside the main text. The behavioral principles outlined are intended to work in a variety of settings and with children of all ages. That specific problems and techniques are covered, make the book that much more useful. Readers can pick and choose among chapters that are relevant for them and it is a book that can be used as a reference throughout a child’s development.

Originally posted on 12/31/2011 at csi-net.org.