PATERNALISM: For better functioning of society, there are certain functions and responsibilities which every person takes on his shoulder to carry. Paternalism is such an important factor in society in which a father or mother takes some of the behavioral patterns in their day-to-day life. The various techniques involved for the better functioning of the family and an individual are termed as Paternalism.
it does not generally mean that the action of a guardian will always be in the favor of their off-springs. Sometimes, the younger ones make decisions impulsively, and to avoid any future destruction, a parent opposes the decision of off-springs. For example, a parent knows that his/her child will suffer from failure even if he tries to invest an immense amount of money in some project, the guardian will definitely stop the child to prevent him/her from future losses.
John Stuart Mill was the person who gave the definition of it as superiority based on age factor and accounts for maximum maturity towards the children. It does not always need a father for parenting the children. Any person irrespective of the gender greater in age and experiences vows the right to explain and assist the younger generation. For example, you are applying the wrong techniques to start a vehicle and your teacher is observing you, then after some time, he/she will automatically guide you based on his/her experience and knowledge.
There is broadly two kinds of Paternalism viz. Hard Paternalism and Soft Paternalism.
Hard Paternalism
John states that in this kind of Paternalism people’s attitude is harsh at the time of emergency. Attitude defines an important role in this guide. For example, if a person is deciding a wrong match for himself/herself then the parents forcefully possess the authority to stop him/her.
Soft Paternalism
This indicates a soft and tender kind of parenting in which the elder people never possess any kind of control over younger ones. For example, a family does not approve of dance learning sessions but after some time the new generation wants to learn it, then the guardian brings change in their mindset and does not stop younger generation to learn something.
