Parental Discipline: A Tool for Character Formation of Young Children in Kenyenya District, South East Kenya Field

Many Adventist Christian parents and Christian communities in Kenyenya District, South Kenya Field, are indifferent when it comes to disciplining their young children; they manifest moral negligence informed by the fear of infuriating their children. Some parents are even afraid that when they discipline their children, they will lose their authority over them. This parental and Christian community mishap creates an increasing situation of juvenile delinquencies in the region. The study was guided by Faith Development Theory (FDT) by John Westerhoff. The target population was 685 respondents, with a sample size of 206 informants. The study found that disciplining children, despite being one of the most difficult and unpleasable tasks to do, is also one of the most important forms of child moral education for life, meant to build self-discipline. This is usually done through various forms of punishment. It is recommended for positive guidance and discipline of young children.