The antonyms for "most mollycoddling" would be "tough love," "challenging," "disciplined," and "hard-nosed." Opposite to indulging, pampering, or overprotecting, these terms refer to a more demanding or no-nonsense approach to raising children or managing employees. Tough love involves setting high expectations, enforcing consequences, and providing support to help individuals develop resilience and self-reliance. Similarly, being disciplined presupposes following established guidelines, adhering to rules, and accepting responsibility for one's actions. Challenging people to overcome obstacles, grow outside their comfort zone, and develop new skills can also build self-esteem and confidence. By contrast, mollycoddling could foster dependency and undermine personal growth.