I saw an episode where Aunt Bee decided that it was a bad idea for Opie to spend time at the jail with his Dad. She told Andy this. Andy hated the idea, but gave in. It turned out to be a disaster, so Aunt Bee then decided that Opie should be allowed to visit his Dad at work.

I realize that she should have a say in decisions, and that Andy respected her judgement. I'm wondering if there were any episodes where Andy had to tell Aunt Bee that he was the parent, or did he always defer to her suggestions regarding Opie?

Was this issue ever addressed on the show?

I believe that Andy deferred to Aunt Bee's judgement regarding Opie's upbringing due to the fact that Aunt Bee came to their home specifically to help raise Opie at Andy's request. According to the first episode, it's made clear that Aunt Bee raised Andy and other children over the years as well. This would pretty much make her an expert on the subject of raising children, in his eyes. So, given her many years of experience it certainly wouldn't be unusual for Andy to let her try her suggestions first. Then there's the cultural factor of showing respect for one's elders; you'll notice that Andy would often use the term "Yes, Mam" when speaking with her.

Thanks caladon. Your post has given me perspective, as I wasn't aware that Aunt Bee raised Andy. It makes more sense now as to why Andy was so willing to allow her to have so much influence regarding Opie's upbringing.