I would call it a misbehavior prevention program where there are a lot of empowering of kids, training of kids, giving consequences (not punishments) to kids, etc... The book isn't overly stuffed with psychological babble, but instead has clear, direct instructions and examples of how parents should implement the tools. I also love how McCready empathizes with the parents and then empowers them. There were some things I didn't agree with and some things I wish McCready would have addressed like hitting, lying, stealing, etc. especially because she doesn't believe in "punishing" kids. But overall, it is an excellent book that every parent should read. And yes, parents, you actually have to parent. And it's hard (it's supposed to be!). It annoys the daylights out of me when parents blame their kids for the misbehaviors, (it's their personality, it's just a "phase" they're going through, they just won't listen, etc). So, if you're not willing to change, put in some hard work, or make your children your TOP priority, then this book isn't for you (or any parenting book for that matter). This book is for parents of toddlers to teenagers. If you have kids younger than 2, I would suggest reading The Happiest Toddler on the Block which gives great tools for disciplining those little ones. I would also recommend having your spouse and caregivers of your children read this book so everyone is on the same page. I pre-ordered this book because a friend of mine recommended Amy's