Shaquille O’Neal as a father is way more peaceful than his stepfather Philip A. Harrison. Shaq has learned a lot about life and discipline growing up in a military family. His stepfather is popularly known as Sarge. And he would occasionally punish Shaq physically to teach him lessons. Harrison taught him many life lessons and once told him that if O’Neal did everything he asked, he would make Shaq the best big man ever. And he was right; Shaq went on to become one of the most well-known athletes and celebrity figures.

When the Los Angeles Lakers legend was just two years old, Lucille O’Neal married Philip A. Harrison, an army drill sergeant. Shaq’s training began with his stepfather, whose army strictness and discipline could be sensed throughout Shaq’s practice.

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Shaq once admitted, “He never hit me without cause, if it weren’t for him I’d be in prison right now because I was a wise guy, and I did the wrong things, and I was caught up with the wrong kids.”

Shaquille O’Neal shares his stepfather’s lessons with his kids but in a peaceful way

Apart from being a basketball legend, Shaq is also a businessman, DJ, singer, and writer. Back in 2011, Shaquille O’Neal published his book titled Shaq Uncut in which he recalled how his stepdad gave him a severe beating. He said, “We’re not talking about spanking, we’re talking about a belt.” The story was a startling moment for the public, but Shaq understands that everything his father did was to help his son become better and keep away from bad influences.

The Los Angeles Lakers legend is a father to six children. He is frequently seen disciplining his children, and the rules he establishes for them are well known. Shaq shared his stepfather’s teachings and lessons with his children, especially his boys. His approach, though, is far more peaceful than his stepfather’s. In a recent interview, Shaq shared that whenever his kids did something or fought, he would act angry even though he isn’t. Interestingly, that was enough to discipline his children.

He further shared how he peacefully settles fights between his boys without uttering a word. He makes his kids hold hands and asks them to give a tight hug to each other. And Shaq feels like it is a better way than punishing his kids physically.

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