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I am not a parent, nor do I plan on ever becoming on, but I no bad parenting when I see it. I am also sad to say that it is happening in my own home.

I was suffering the internet, minding my own business when my kid brother (who is seven years old) comes into to the house crying. My mother had grounded him for not listening while they were at the movies. Not 20 minutes later my mother comes in and gives him a brand new DS game. Does anyone else see something wrong with this situation?

I didn't realize that being grounded meant that you got rewarded for bad behaviour. What my mother is telling my brother, " I love how you always throw a tantrum when you don't get your way. Here's a that DS game you asked (demanded) for. Keep up the good work!" That's like praising a dog for pooping on your bed!

This is not an uncommon interaction between my parents and my brother and it really bugs. They often ask themselves why my brother is growing up to be a brat, and when they do I want to yell at them, "It because you won't follow through with anything!" but it's unfortunately not my place.

So, what do I do about it? I rant to strangers on the internet, that's what I do! It's the solution to everything! (please pick up on the sarcasm)