In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, what type of relationship do Jem and Scout have with their father?

Jem and Scout have a great relationship with their father, Atticus. Both children look up to their father and view him with high esteem. Atticus is patient and tolerant when it comes to child-rearing, and his children appreciate it. In one scene, Uncle Jack attempts to discipline Scout, and she says, "When Jem an' I fuss Atticus doesn't ever just listen to Jem's side of it, he hears mine too." (Lee 112) Atticus allows Scout...

Jem and Scout have a great relationship with their father, Atticus. Both children look up to their father and view him with high esteem. Atticus is patient and tolerant when it comes to child-rearing, and his children appreciate it. In one scene, Uncle Jack attempts to discipline Scout, and she says, "When Jem an' I fuss Atticus doesn't ever just listen to Jem's side of it, he hears mine too." (Lee 112) Atticus allows Scout the freedom to dress and act how she wants, despite Aunt Alexandra's disapproval. Jem looks up to his father, so much, that his worst fear is Atticus being disappointed in him. Jem risks his life going back to the Radley yard to retrieve his pants to avoid Atticus' disappointment.

Atticus teaches his children life lessons on perspective, courage, relationships, and compromise. Scout and Jem's moral development throughout the novel is a direct result of Atticus' child-rearing. Jem cares deeply for his father, which is why he refuses to leave his side during the mob scene. Scout takes heed to Atticus' lesson in self-control when she decides to refrain from hitting Cecil Jacobs. Atticus is a great role-model who leads by example. Miss Maudie tells Scout, "Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets." (Lee 61)