However, the task of helping parent

However, the task of helping parents with child management and training was not as simple a procedure as it had appeared at first glance. Unless the mother understood the reason for an action, and unless such advice was congruent with her beliefs, she was inclined to disregard the nurse's suggestions. In a discussion of advice, as opposed to education, Winifred Rand pointed out that, if the nurse were to function effectively, it was necessary to educate parents with regard to the development and management of children, rather than advise them on these problems. Parents had to participate actively in this learning process, and thus acquire an understanding of the rationale behind a procedure, if they were to benefit from their contact with the public health nurse.