Self-Reliance vs. Attachment Parenting

Dr. Alanna Levine, MD, explains her opposition to attachment parenting, and why she believes self-reliant, independent children come from a childhood with less parental involvement and attachment.
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Self-Reliance vs. Attachment Parenting

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There are so many different parenting philosophies out there. And ultimately as a parent you need to choose the one that feels right to you. One style is attachment parenting. And this is a parenting style where the parent and the child are in close proximity all the time. My style of parenting is called raising a self-reliant child, where you foster independence in your children. And the reason I advocate for this parenting style is while I think it's wonderful to love your children and to nurture your children, you also want to give your children the message that you believe in them and their capabilities. And if you think about what childhood and adolescence is about, it's really about developmental milestones that make you an independent child and then an independent adult. So rather than giving your child the message that they need you by their side all the time, I think it's a much more positive message to give your child that you're there for them should they need you, but that you believe they really can handle a lot on their own.

Dr. Alanna Levine, MD, explains her opposition to attachment parenting, and why she believes self-reliant, independent children come from a childhood with less parental involvement and attachment.

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Alanna Levine, MD

Pediatrician & Author

Dr. Alanna Levine is a New York-based pediatrician and a mom of two children.  As a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Levine frequently appears on television and in print speaking about breaking medical news and common parenting topics.  Dr. Levine is also a contributor for BabyCenter.com, on the board of advisors for GetSweaty.com, and on the executive committee for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Council on Communications and Media.Dr. Levine sees patients at Orangetown Pediatric Associates in New York and is on staff at Nyack Hospital and Englewood Hospital and Medical Center.   She completed her internship and residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital, received her medical degree at Sackler School of Medicine in Tel Aviv, Israel, a master’s degree in medical sciences from Boston University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin.

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