Marriage
Marriage was thought of as a civil union and was not under the authority of the church, though, marriage was used as a metaphor for the relationship between the believers and God. In a traditional Puritan marriage, the husband was considered the more dominant person in the relationship. One of the main beliefs of Puritans was God was considered the father, therefore all fathers should be responsible for the social order and emotions in the family. Even though men were to dominate the family, affection was still encouraged within the marriage.
Children
Children were expected to obey their parents unquestioningly. Women were allowed to have direct authority over their children to teach them manners, show them discipline, and show them affection. Children were expected to behave like the adults in their Puritan community by doing chores, attending church services, and repressing their emotions. Children didn't play games, since it was thought of as a sinful distraction. Boys worked as apprentices and explored the outdoors. Girls were expected to stay in the home and help their mothers. Many children learned to read, but were only allowed to read from the Bible and works that described witchcraft and its effects.