Abstract

Having to repeat discipline for the same offence is an indication either of weak or inconsistent parenting, or especially vigilant parenting. In this study we argue that it is mainly indicative of weak parenting (when the repeated discipline is over half the time) and other home problems, and that the result is high-risk behaviour as a teenager. We expect weak parenting to be associated with low formal and non-formal (mainly church) education, and informal education (mainly television and reading with the child), and market work, especially on weekends, by the main parent. Detailed evidence relating to this argument is presented for all children aged 4 to 9 in 1995 (and "teens" aged 12 to 17 in 2003), for girls and for boys. While the evidence supports most of the argument, market work is found to be unrelated to teen and home problems, and some teen high-risk behaviours seem unaffected. Tables profile subgroups of children by frequency of disciplining. The use and limitation of the results of the study for teens, parents and educators are noted in the conclusion.