Harper Lee's, To Kill a Mockingbird, demonstrates the differences in rearing children through out the story. The most prevalent styles of parenting can be found in the Finch, Cunningham and Ewell families. The parenting styles between these families are strongly influenced by the social economics, morals, and educational background in the small town of Maycomb.
             Let us begin with Atticus Finch, a single father of two children, is to be considered on the higher level of the social economic standings of Maycomb. The Finches have been around for many generations. The townsfolk see him as a very well liked and respected member of his town. He is also the leading attorney in his town. He is not rich but is able to provide a comfortable life for his children and himself. His home exemplifies the ideal environment to rear his children. Because of his economic standing, his children, Jem and Scout, are able to live and play carefree. He is portrayed as a good father and his attitude toward his children is positive. The Cunningham family is in the lower social economic level. Walter Cunningham, the father, is a struggling farmer. He owns a small piece of land where he does most his farming. Their only way to survive is through their crops. These crops are the only form of wages for them. The people of Maycomb are very respectful of him and his family. They try their best to be upstanding citizens of Maycomb and the citizens know that the Cunningham family as loyal, truthful and extremely hard working set of individuals. The Ewell family is the white trash of Maycomb. Bob Ewell is a single father with seven children. Bob is the disgrace of the town; no one trusts him or his children. Bob does not have the respect of the townsfolk. His home was located behind the city dump. He collects welfare, which he uses to buy his booze. His children are dirty and they have to constantly fend for themselves. The children are v...