No matter how much we’d like to believe our kids are perfect, the stark truth is that none of them are. Now, I’m not suggesting the majority of parents aren’t doing their jobs – far from it – merely that childhood is a steep learning curve, one in which virtually all participants will make mistakes they’ll look back on and regret.
It’s important to remember that when our children make mistakes, it’s not about what has happened, but rather how they learn from it and grow. And sometimes, teaching them a lesson requires courageous and unconventional actions.
Consequences That Make an Impression
Punishment is an essential tool for teaching children the weight of their actions. It can range from a symbolic reprimand to an impactful lesson that leaves a lasting impression. One father recently opted for the latter when his daughter was caught bullying a classmate who was battling cancer.
In a bold move, the concerned father decided to shave his daughter’s head bald. He wanted her to experience the emotional pain and stigma that her victim had to endure. While this method has sparked controversy online, the father stands by his decision.
He explains, “They were having an argument in class about stupid teenage gossip regarding my daughter’s boyfriend. At some point, the other girl mentioned how my daughter’s boyfriend was just using her for sex, and called my daughter a slut. That’s what escalated the situation and resulted in the wig incident. Supposedly, they have been arguing in class ever since my daughter started dating the guy in question. Basically just stupid teenage ‘he said she said’ nonsense. Not how I’ve raised my daughter to treat people, and it truly disgusted me to hear how she acted from her deputy principle. She showed no remorse. She tried to excuse her behavior by saying the girl in question deserved it. Again, I don’t care what she said, that behavior is inexcusable.”
Facing the Backlash
The dad is fully aware that many people, including the girl’s mother, believe he went too far with his chosen punishment. However, he firmly believes that his daughter needed a powerful wake-up call to develop empathy for the girl she bullied.
“I came up with the punishment because I thought my daughter had an extreme lack of empathy for the girl she bullied,” he shares. “My daughter knows this, and that is what really disgusted me with her behavior. It demonstrated a complete and utter lack of empathy. I hoped that her going to school bald and walking a mile in the other girl’s shoes would teach her a lesson.”
Starting a Conversation
Now, it’s time for us to weigh in on the matter. Do you think the father’s decision to shave his daughter’s head was too extreme? We value your opinion and would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Feel free to share this article on Facebook to keep the conversation going!
