Systemic Parenting (Paperback)

by Mark MFT Gaskill (Author) "A parent once telephoned my office desperately seeking an appointment for her 14 year-old son: I am a family therapist..." (more)
Key Phrases: artful parent, having greater intimacy, least emotional resistance, Mark Gaskill, North Philadelphia, Micro-Parenting Influences (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
"Its almost as though this book is about everything - or maybe everything is about parenting." -- Dr. Janet M. Shaw, Ph.D. - University of Utah

Product Description
Parenting can be one of the most rewarding of all human experiences. The joy and satisfaction that comes from parenting well are almost indescribable. Parenting well is also one of the most demanding and challenging activities anybody will ever experience. Unfortunately, children do not come with instruction manuals. Parents must rely upon natural instincts and their own life experiences when deciding how to introduce the world and all of its complexities to their children. The idea of a "how to" manual for parenting, complete with a few easy to follow steps, ultimate solutions, and specific directions-although a desirable notion-is impractical. Most parents realize that the parent-child relationship can be complex, dynamic, and influenced by factors that are unique to their own family circumstances. Attempts to oversimplify this relationship are rarely helpful. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 424 pages
• Publisher: Aventine Press (August 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1593300859
• ISBN-13: 978-1593300852
• Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 6.2 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #887,106 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

46 of 48 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Solid Parenting Advice, January 22, 2004

By	David B. Haynes (Utah United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Gaskill writes an excellent book from the perspective of a practicioner for parents. He skips over the deep theory and confusing language of psychology to focus on a long list of pragmatic maxims for effective parenting. As the father of twins boys, I have already put some of his advise to good use.

34 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Focuses on a parent child relationship rather than how-tos, November 16, 2004

By	Gagewyn (United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)

Basically the approach in Systemic Parenting to focus on building a relationship with your child. It isn't a how-to book in terms of discipline them this way, potty train them by this age, etc. So it will more help you to see the "big picture" than give you immediate advice on what you need to do. Of course with a grasp of the big picture you can figure out how to treat specific situations. So the advice in Systemic Parenting is more verstile, but less immediate.

I really appreciate the focus on the relationship and bond between parent and child. It is something that tends to be taken for granted in lieu of more immediate issues. However the advice here is not immediately practical, and the presentation is text-booky and dull.

I recommend passing on Systemic Parenting. ... The premise of Systemic Parenting is an excellent one, but the presentation is not so hot.

38 of 50 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Too technical, November 25, 2004

By	grace benton - See all my reviews

This book was not our cup of tea. My husband and I like more practical guidance that does not read in such therapeutic terms. We have a 3 year old.