Dr. Leonard Sax, a seasoned family physician with over 30 years of experience, shared his concerning observations about parent-child interactions in a 2015 Wall Street Journal article titled “Parenting in the Age of Awfulness.” A notable incident involved a ten-year-old boy named Kyle who was dismissive and disrespectful towards his mother while engrossed in a video game during a medical visit.
Sax’s observations highlight a disturbing trend of increased disrespect and rudeness among children in today’s society. This sentiment is echoed by other professionals, such as Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D., who recounted disturbing incidents from his wife’s classroom, where young children displayed shocking behavior towards authority figures.
Psychologists attribute this shift in behavior to the prevalence of disrespect in popular culture, media, and social interactions. Unlike in previous decades, children today are exposed to influences that undermine the traditional values of respect and humility taught by parents and authority figures.
Sax’s book, “The Collapse of Parenting: How We Hurt Our Kids When We Treat Them Like Grownups,” delves deeper into the challenges faced by modern parents as they navigate the delicate balance between discipline and empowerment. He argues that children are often raised with inflated self-esteem, leading them to prioritize their opinions over parental guidance.
Despite these challenges, Millennial parents are adapting their parenting styles to meet the demands of the times. They are spending more quality time with their children, engaging in conversations about money, sharing household responsibilities more equitably, and prioritizing family togetherness. Additionally, they are diligent about safety practices, nutrition, and breastfeeding, reflecting a strong commitment to their children’s well-being.
While there are significant challenges in raising children in today’s society, Millennial parents are innovating and finding success in many aspects of parenting. By staying responsive, engaged, and mindful of their children’s needs, they are fostering positive relationships and creating healthy environments for their families.
