Stay at Home Parent vs Working Parents

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Many parents today struggle with the decision of whether to stay home or to work. This struggle is most prevalent in two parent homes where one parent provides more for the family and the other either wishes to stay home or circumstances dictate it. When making this decision there are many aspects to think about. What are the benefits of working and what are the disadvantages? What are the same for staying home? One of the aspects of working that many like is the structure, organization, and recognition that an employer provides. When a person works, no matter the position, there are expectations, regulations, and goals. Maintaining them or reaching new heights gives workers a sense of accomplishment, and motivation to continue to grow. When a task or goal is set when working, there is no deviation, you are expected to reach the goal and in a set amount of time. On the other hand, a stay-at-home parent must constantly adjust the plan, or schedule, to the needs of the child. A parents sense of accomplishment is almost entirely tied to that of the child. Children as a whole are chaotic, they want to do what they want when they want. It is the parents job to instill an understanding of structure and goals. Once a child starts to understand whatever system the parent put in to place, they and the parent get a sense of accomplishment for the child reaching a goal or staying on task. For working parents this is not as strong, but they get other praise and recognition. Mary Mohler (2005) states, 'A 3-year-old doesn't give you an annual review, a raise or a promotion. And a teenager will be happy to give you feedback, but I've found it's seldom the kind that will bolster your sense of self-worth.' Another aspect for some is financial need. When a parent wishes to stay home but doesn't it might very well just be because of the financial requirements of the family. As a
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