In the course of raising children, parents often look for effective strategies to educate and shape the character of their children. One well-known approach is the good cop vs bad cop strategy in parenting. This approach involves one parent playing the role of 'good cop' with a more soothing and pleasant demeanor, while the other parent takes on the role of 'bad cop', tasked with sanctioning and enforcing discipline.

IPEKA Christian School, which focuses not only on academic development but also on character building and Christian values, views this strategy from a unique perspective, integrating the principles of "IPEKA Parenting" based on Christian values in this approach.

Advantages of Good Cop & Bad Cop Strategy:

1. Children are educated according to the rules: Through this approach, children are taught to obey rules. The 'bad cop' ensures that children cannot easily break the rules, while the 'good cop' provides explanations and understanding of why the rules are important, effectively instilling values and discipline.
2. Improving Compliance and Assertiveness: This strategy helps in developing a sense of obedience and assertiveness in children, values that they will carry with them when interacting outside the home, in line with Christian teaching on obedience and respect.
3. Building Children's Trust: Children can channel their feelings and seek support from parents who play the role of 'good cop', strengthening the bond of trust between children and parents.

Disadvantages of Good Cop & Bad Cop Strategy:

1. Picking Sides: Children tend to side with the good cop parent, which can affect family dynamics and weaken the authority of the bad cop parent.
2. Having a Favorite Parent: This strategy can result in the child having a strong preference for one parent, which can affect the relationship between family members.
3. Difficulty in Prioritizing: This division of roles can make it difficult for children to determine what is right and wrong, especially if the messages received from both parents conflict.

Alternative Strategies for Raising Children:

Communication between spouses in setting clear rules and boundaries, as well as inviting children to discuss and participate is very important in the formation of these rules. This approach not only strengthens family relationships, but also teaches children about the importance of communication, understanding, and participation in the larger community, a reflection of the values taught by Christ of love, forgiveness, and understanding.

Source: https://betterparent.id/good-cop-dan-bad-cop-dalam-mendidik-anak/