Parents: Confidant vs Enforcer

In this current generation, relationships between parents and their children are undoubtedly strained. It is obvious as many artists today continue to come out with songs detailing their broken relationships with their families; also, it is even more apparent as shown on television in shows such as Teen Mom and Intervention. Rearing a child without excessive techniques, can be beneficial to both parent and child as little rebellion will most likely occur. The most crucial points to avoid this would be the alteration of the way parents view many teenagers today, education and friendship.

The majority of parents of today’s teens grew up in the 1960’s and ‘70’s where manners were expected and the “it takes a village to raise a child,” ideal still held true. “Yes Ma‘am, No sir“ were apart of the make-up of manners and staying outside all day and playing with the neighborhood kids was considered to be the perfect past time. Admittedly, the current generation’s definition of fun and manners are a bit altered as Facebook and video games take up much time. Plenty of people still say “Yes Ma‘am, No sir,” due to the fact that they were raised in the south where respect is prominent in just about every household. But, if you delve into places such as Miami and California, that idea is not the norm, and considered quite old fashioned. Many constantly state that those born before the 80’s harbor more values, and have a stronger sense of duty than those born after. There is a ton of opposing arguments relating to that statement, yet to a certain extent. Some teenagers and those following after do not hold respect for themselves, others and their country as they should and social graces can be considered to be nearly non-existent, which...

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...ld ever get, but that also plays off the idea that everyone needs variety in their lives and it is not fair for anyone to be exposed to only one culture, unless they consider the stereotypes seen on television exposure.

Parenting is a tough job, that can only be done correctly through trial and error, research and patience. Raising a child without excessive techniques, can be beneficial to both parent and child as little rebellion will most likely occur and the relationship between parent and child will definitely become stronger. The best way to avoid this would be the alteration of the way parents generally view teenagers today, education and friendship. Communication, experience and bonding is the best way to raise a child, during these trying times in the world. Becoming a confidant, instead of being a constant enforcer will reap more benefits than many think.