It's For Your Own Good ...

compound complex

Intervention and then, if necessary, decisive action ... on behalf of an individual whose state of mind and behavior do not align with what is deemed acceptable by society (or "THE" Society).

Looking back from your current vantage point, are you now less likely to give advice or - worst case scenario - get involved in saving someone from him- or herself? When would you intervene? When do you back off and say that this is none of my business?

One of my reasons for asking is because, even in the case of minors (over whose lives parents do seem to have the last word), adults often cannot distinguish between authoritarianism and beneficent parental guidance. In general, however, my query involves any person in a position of authority who attempts to control a subordinate by enforcing "what is for his/her own good."

Thanks for your input,

CoCo

MissingLink

Convince - OK

Coerce - BAD

In the end - support those you love in whatever decisions they make.

wings

In general, however, my query involves any person in a position of authority who attempts to control a subordinate by enforcing "what is for his/her own good."

I think I understand what you mean CoCo. I am not a controling person, however, I have been controled by the best. My older sister, husband, etc...so speaking from that vantage point, I can honestly say it is not helpful. Not helpful at all.

WTWizard

One thing I have noticed is that, when any "higher cause" usurps common sense, the people always lose. It is not good for anyone to make decisions for those who are capable of making their own.

The best thing anyone can do is offer material for people to research. Which is not meant to be exclusive--I always suggest looking up three or more independent sources, at least one on each side, before making any major decision. And when I do make suggestions, I do not want people to blindly follow it without some insight or looking up independent sources (what if I am wrong?). It is better to lay out the options, along with some of the common costs and benefits, and encourage people to do their own cost/benefit analysis before making any final decision.

compound complex

Greetings and thanks:

Missing Link

Wings

WTWizard

Your comments are appreciated and very helpful.

With gratitude,

CoCo

Anti-Christ

I agree with WTW , I only help people who really want help. I don't think it's a good idea to force anything on anybody ( adults), children need a little more direction but I don't think you should force personal taste and believe on a child.

compound complex

Thank you for your input, Anti-Christ ...

Gratefully,

CoCo

Hortensia

I don't really trust people who think they know what's best for me. Usually it turns out to be what's best for them, or it's how they would run their lives but has nothing to do with my life.

chickpea

as a parent of a nearly adult child with multiple mental health diagnoses, i cannot envision a day where i would not assert a position should i perceive the need for "input" into her life and the choices she makes.... i do not know how to be otherwise for her.....

lisavegas420

I think it would depend on the issues and the kind of relationship I had with that person. . Are they in an abusive relationship, are they abusing drugs or driving drunk? I'd get involved.

If it's about my kids smoking, um..I mention it. They go outside if they don't want to hear it.

If they were doing anything I thought was dangerous, I would say something.

If it was someone I worked with, or a neighbor, I might or might not get involved.

Oh...and if it's my husband..well, he lives with me,...he already knows he's gonna hear about it.

lisa

It's For Your Own Good ...

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