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Parental Rights Versus State Needs

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Parental Rights versus State Needs: A History of Conflict and Compromise Historically, parents sourced their rights regarding childrearing from one outlet, themselves. In modern times, the state has taken a more active role in family issues, to include parenting. This interaction between state and individual parent has not always been harmonious. This paper will discuss the issue from both perspectives.
Historical Aspect When considering American history, governments treated parental rights as a private matter that deserved interference only under special circumstances. Guidance often came from the Bible, and encouraged conduct that, in modern times, is subject to continued debate. The Book of Proverbs, as well as other writings within the Bible, provides one with substantial documentation of establishing and promoting parental rights, particularly when addressing the concept of corporal punishment. Proverbs 13:24 writes, “He that spares his rod hates his son: but he that loves him chastens him betimes” (Biblos.com, 2004, Proverbs 13:24). Proverbs 19:18 writes, “Discipline your son while there is hope, and do not desire his death” (Biblos.com, Proverbs 19:18). Proverbs 23:13-14 writes, “Withhold not correction from the child: for if you beat him with the rod, he shall not die. You shall beat him with the rod, and shall deliver his soul from hell” (Biblos.com, Proverbs 23:13-14). Proverbs 29:15 writes, “The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child who gets his own way brings shame to his mother” Biblos.com, Proverbs 29:15). These examples are but a few of many Biblical references regarding corporal punishment. Since one can easily argue the historical significance the Bible played in western cultural development, one can also argue the significance of familial interaction at such a level. Another concept of

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