Atticus Parenting Style Analysis

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee depicts the judgmental nature of characters within the novel by enabling them to express criticism about actions they deem taboo. The Maycomb community constantly scrutinized Atticus’ parenting style because in their stubborn mindset it opposed the traditional beliefs they held about parenting. The close-minded mentalities of Aunt Alexandra and Mrs. Dubose fostered an unwarranted stigma against Atticus’ parenting abilities, however they stifled their ability to acknowledge that he possessed qualities prevalent in outstanding parents.

One character that openly criticizes Atticus’ approach to parenting throughout the novel is Aunt Alexandra. She portrays her disapproval of Atticus’ parenting style through

No matter how busy his schedule is or the hardships he faces, “Atticus always makes an effort to spend time with Scout and Jem” (Ennis). Atticus spends part of his free time reading material to his children and inadvertently teaches Scout how to read. Effective parents routinely practice spending time with their children, despite the hectic day-to-day operations that engulf people. Another quality of Atticus’ parenting style is his ability to show compassion for others, regardless of the situation. He explains to his children that one never really understands a person until they consider things from their point of view (Lee 39). Instead of becoming angry with someone, he tells his children to place themselves in that person’s shoes to understand how they feel. Atticus does not only preach this doctrine, but “His attitude and actions remain consistent with his views, and, because his children see this, his morality and sincerity are slowly instilled in them” (Earnest) which is a successful parenting strategy.

The parenting technique employed by Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird is questioned by Aunt Alexandra, Mrs. Dubose, and other characters throughout the novel. His tactics are considered to be unconventional and do not conform to the traditional set of values held by the Maycomb community on the subject of parenting. However, the overcritical citizens fail to realize that Atticus is the epitome of a suitable father, which he displays through his acceptance of his children and devotion to be a role model in their lives to promote their attainment of positive characteristics and