Skip to main content
Chaptra
Cover of Child Versus Parent: Some Chapters on the Irrepressible Conflict in the Home

Child Versus Parent: Some Chapters on the Irrepressible Conflict in the Home

Written by Stephen S. (Stephen Samuel) Wise

Not rated yet — tap a star to review it
Parent and child

Chaptra reads alongside you — AI insights, chapter breakdowns and reader discussions for every book. Join free

About this book

"Child Versus Parent: Some Chapters on the Irrepressible Conflict in the Home" by Stephen S. Wise is a scholarly exploration written in the early 20th century. This book delves into the complex relationships between parents and children, with a particular focus on the inevitable conflicts that arise throughout various stages of family life. The central theme revolves around understanding both parental responsibilities and children's rights, while examining the dynamics that lead to misunderstandings and discord in the home. The opening of the work presents a profound reflection on the evolving nature of the family unit in the context of societal changes. Wise argues that the family is not doomed but is instead evolving into something that must grapple with modern realities. He highlights that conflicts often begin not in childhood but during adolescence as the balance of power shifts and children seek independence. The author emphasizes the need for parents to recognize their children's individuality and the importance of mutual respect, not just love, within these relationships. He advocates for parents to fulfill their roles as educators in a moral and spiritual sense, rather than merely providing material support, urging a cooperative and democratic model in the home to nurture healthy connections between parents and children.

Read it with a club

Small groups reading the same books and talking as they go.

All clubs
Two readers smiling over something on a table

News

  • 1 member
  • 1,813 discussions
  • Active 15h ago

Read Child Versus Parent: Some Chapters on the Irrepressible Conflict in the Home alongside people who are reading it too.

Open the club

Also here: News Bulletin, Just Joking....

Chaptra Prime — paid clubs, every club feature, and unlimited reading support, for $5 a month or $60 once.

See Prime

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Child Versus Parent: Some Chapters on the Irrepressible Conflict in the Home, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • thought-provoking
  • analytical
  • instructive

Stephen S. Wise's "Child Versus Parent" is an early 20th-century scholarly work exploring the inherent conflicts within the family unit, particularly as it grapples with societal evolution. Wise posits that the family is not in decline but is transforming, with tensions often escalating during adolescence as children strive for independence. The book advocates for a paradigm shift in parenting, emphasizing the critical need for mutual respect and the recognition of children's individuality, moving beyond mere love. It calls upon parents to embrace their roles as moral and spiritual educators, fostering a cooperative and democratic home environment to cultivate healthy intergenerational relationships.

“"The family is not doomed, but is instead evolving into something that must grapple with modern realities."”

Key themes

The Irrepressible Conflict
This central theme posits that conflict between parents and children is not merely inevitable but a natural and necessary aspect of family life and individual development. Wise argues it's not a sign of failure but a dynamic force, particularly pronounced during adolescence, as children strive for autonomy and self-definition. It's a conflict arising from the shifting balance of power and the inherent need for individual growth.
Evolution of the Family Unit
Wise reflects on how the family is not a static institution but is profoundly shaped by broader societal changes. He argues against the pessimistic view of the family's decline, instead portraying it as an adaptable entity that must evolve to address modern realities. This theme explores how external pressures and changing social norms necessitate new approaches to parenting and family structure.
Parental Responsibility and Education
This theme emphasizes that parental duties extend far beyond providing material support. Wise advocates for parents to embrace a crucial role as moral and spiritual educators, guiding their children's character development, values, and ethical understanding. This involves active engagement, teaching by example, and fostering a nurturing environment for holistic growth.

Worth discussing

How has the concept of the "irrepressible conflict" in the home changed or remained constant since Wise's time?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

Sign up freeLog in

Discussions

No one has started one yet

Join

Questions this book opens up

No discussions yet

Be the first to start a discussion about this book!

Sign up to start the discussion

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to review this book!