EJ

Since I've already spilled ice cream all over your thread, I'll give it a shot at being serious.

I think it makes them afraid to face reality, and they act out when they are forced to face the truth. Some become paralyzed with fear, some become explosive and lash out, some escape into a fantasy world of their own.

It forces them to walk with crutches.

I'm a little confused by "unconditional love though." That's something only a dog can give. If you give unconditional love to your child, you're not teaching him anything. You become the dog, and your child becomes the master. It's unrealistic to expect to give or receive unconditional love from another human being because there will always be consequences to certain conditions.

I prefer to call it "never-ending love." There were times when I was furious with my son and had to punish him - but he always knew how much I loved him. He knows my love for him will never die.