Core Viewpoint - The essence of both rewards and punishments is control, and while rewards may seem more humane, they can lead to a focus on external incentives rather than intrinsic motivation [3][12][24] Group 1: Nature of Rewards and Punishments - Rewards can create a power struggle between parents and children, as children may become more interested in the rewards than the value of the task itself [5][6][7] - The use of rewards can lead to a dependency on external validation, making it difficult for children to engage in activities for their own sake [4][11][24] Group 2: Autonomy and Cooperation - Children have a fundamental need for autonomy, and when parents impose control through rewards or punishments, it can lead to resistance and rebellious behavior [12][13][14] - Effective parenting should focus on understanding children's needs and finding cooperative solutions that respect both the child's and the parent's desires [16][17][24] Group 3: Alternative Approaches - Parents should avoid using rewards and punishments as a means of control and instead engage in open dialogue to help children reflect on their actions and feelings [20][21][23] - Building a respectful relationship with children can lead to genuine cooperation, where children recognize the intrinsic value of their actions rather than acting out of fear of punishment or desire for reward [24][25][26]