synklare posted... Fearful of disappointing my dad, yes.
Not because it meant a belt, or corporal punishment of some sort, but because it meant a stern talking to and less time being spent with him as a result of my stupidity. During my very young years, my dad despite working his arse off tried his absolute best to spend time with me.
Given how limited it was, doing something to upset, annoy or dissapoint him meant removing myself from pleasant times with my dad.
Teen years were quite different, no real fear, more clashing and arguing over things. Younger years I hated the idea of frustrating him. As I got older I challenged him more and we said some hateful / nasty things to eachother during that period because we'd test one another too much.
Very good relationship now though, great grandfather to my kids as well. Love both of my parents, any fear came from missing out on time with them, not big punishments.
Reminds me: my dad used to talk about how he used to be a scout leader... so to try to garner attention I joined scouts.
He didnt care and was only annoyed if he had to do anything like take me to a scout event or to the store to buy my uniform.
Then he wondered why I stopped going like 6 months later.