The New Authority
Family, School, and Community

This book presents a model of authority for parents, teachers and community workers that is suitable for today's free, pluralistic societies.

Haim Omer (Author), Shoshana London Sappir (Translated by), Michal Herbsman (Translated by)

9780521137768, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 15 November 2010

296 pages, 1 table
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.4 kg

“The New Authority by Haim Omer offers a unique understanding of authority in modern society that helps parents and teachers fulfill their responsibilities, handle common difficult situations, and foster self-control and responsible autonomy in children. Clear sound principles, concise case examples, and network-building suggestions promote practical application of the book’s important thesis. A valuable resource for mental health and education professionals involved in working with children and parents.”
– David Schnarch, author of Passionate Marriage and Intimacy & Desire

Haim Omer builds on his previous work to present a model of authority for parents, teachers and community workers that is suitable for today's free and pluralistic societies. This new authority contrasts with traditional authority in that it emphasizes self-control and persistence over control of the child, a network of support over a strict hierarchy, taking mutual responsibility for escalations over holding the child solely responsible, patience over threats, non-violent resistance over physical force, and transparency over secrecy. In addition to a thorough discussion of the underlying theory, The New Authority presents a practical program for families, schools and communities. Dr Omer provides specific instructions to combat violence and risky behavior at home and in school, increase parent and teacher interest and support, and implement interventions that increase safety, improve atmosphere and generate community cohesiveness.

1. The new authority
2. Vigilant care
3. Children's violence within the home
4. Enlisting support in the school
5. Presence and supervision at school
6. Publicity and reparation
7. Involving the students in the campaign against violence
8. The new authority in the community.

Subject Areas: Educational psychology [JNC], Social, group or collective psychology [JMH], Child & developmental psychology [JMC], Age groups: adolescents [JFSP2], Age groups: children [JFSP1]