There are some things to notice about many children in America today -- many are disrespectful, out of shape and in charge. An interview with an expert reveals the collapse of parenting today and how it affects the modern children.
Family physician and psychologist Dr. Leonard Sax gave an interview to Associated Press (via Tri-City Herald) to share his thoughts on kids of today. He argued that many modern children are having troubles with authority and that they have more problems emotionally and physically.
"The culture has changed in a profound way in a short period of time -- in ways that have really harmed kids," Sax shared. He also said that it has become common for modern children to be disrespectful to their parents, to themselves and to one another.
The psychologist blamed this profound change on the collapse of parenting. According to him, there has been a transfer of authority from parents to their children and this is what is hurting the kids today. "I know of cases where the kid was clearly making the wrong decision and the parents knew it but nevertheless felt completely powerless to overrule their child," he added.
The first thing he urged about this issue is that every parent must enforce family dinner together with their children. "Research shows that having a family meal at home without distractions is important," he continued. The reason behind its importance is that children will learn that spending time with parents should be a priority.
Another tip the psychologist shared is the importance of teaching kids about humility. "They have been indoctrinated in their own awesomeness with no understanding of how this culture of bloated self-esteem leads to resentment." Spending time with children for some quality time and teach them about the meaning of life are also very important in helping kids develop a better personality and attitude in life.
In an article from Maclean's, psychologist Gordon Neufeld shared his thoughts on why the collapse of parenting today needs to stop. "You need a strong alpha presentation to inspire a child to trust you and depend on you," Neufeld says. "If we don't have enough natural power then we're hard-pressed to [make] the demand or [set] the limit."
