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How do we demonstrate respect values that are different from our own?
We can respect others' values without necessarily agreeing with them. It's okay to acknowledge that you disagree, but we don’t have the right to disrespect someone because their values differ from our own. Every parent faces the possibility that their values will not correspond to those of their child, just as we may have values which are different from our own parents. Communicating about those differences can increase understanding and reduce friction.
Here are some ideas for understanding and respecting values that are different from our own. Please check the ones that you already practice or would like to practice:
- Listening to others without judging them
- Accepting that others are different and we should not try to change them
- Trying to understand others by talking with them or reading about their beliefs
Are there other ways to respect values that are different from yours? What advice would you give to someone who asked you how they should cope with different values?
Unfortunately, we sometimes make mistakes and treat others disrespectfully based on their beliefs and values, or their non-acceptance of our values. Disrespect can take many forms and can include the following:
- Telling someone that they are "stupid" or "dumb" for believing what they do
- Being verbally or physically aggressive toward someone because they think or act differently than we do
- Treating someone rudely or ignoring them because they think or behave differently than we do
- Threatening violence or other negative consequences if a person continues to think or behave in a manner we find to be "offensive"
What are other ways you have witnessed people being disrespectful toward others? What advice would you give your child on how to act toward others’ with whom they disagree? What advice would you give your child on how to handle someone being disrespectful toward them?
More information on values (exercises and information)
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