Childhood experiences do not predetermine adult behavior, but they have a strong impact – either for good or ill- on what adults will become, says a Baptist university professor.
“Positive childhood experiences lead to solid character formation, psychological well-being and healthy relationships,” said Gaynor Yancey, assistant professor in Baylor University’s School of Social Work.
“A dysfunctional beginning can unleash an abundance of personal demons that haunt an individual for a lifetime,” Yancey continued in remarks at a recent training conference sponsored by Woman’s Missionary Union of Texas. “For better or worse, the child lives on in the adult.”
Yancey said parents can help create positive childhood experiences by modeling and teaching conflict resolution and by fostering open communication.
Conflict management involves recognizing the source of a problem, getting the facts, defining the conflict, gathering ideas and discussing options that will lead to solutions he said.
Effective communication depends on a willingness to recognize the uniqueness of each family member, taking the time to listen and taking responsibility for individual thoughts, feelings and behaviors, she said As children learn to communicate with other family members, she continued, parents should also teach the importance of communicating with God.
“Part of godly leadership is how you help your family start the day,” Yancey said. “A spiritual quiet time is important, because God desires fellowship with me, Jesus deserves my attention, and it’s necessary for a vital and growing relationship with Christ.”
Healthy families learn both to pray together and serve together, Yancey said.
(ABP)
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