Modern parents often pride themselves on never scolding their children. However, paradoxically, it’s these very same children who often resort to extreme measures like suicide over seemingly minor issues such as a teacher’s reprimand or a parent’s stern look. It’s natural for parents to correct their children when they make mistakes.
Children who receive discipline from their parents and teachers tend to recover from failures more quickly. In fact, exposing children to criticism can help them develop better stress management skills.
A child psychiatrist, Dr. Jayanthi, was asked about the merits of disciplining children. She pointed out that older generations were disciplined by their parents, often harshly, and yet they turned out just fine. She likened discipline to polishing gold, suggesting that it helps children reach their full potential.
Today’s children are incredibly intelligent and capable. Instead of coddling them, parents should provide both praise and correction. If parents continue to shield their children from any form of criticism, the children may develop a fragile psyche.
A recent news article highlighted the case of a young girl who attempted suicide by poisoning her orange juice because her mother wouldn’t let her watch TV. This tragic incident underscores the importance of discipline. Children who are never reprimanded may feel lost and confused when faced with consequences.
In contrast, children who are disciplined learn from their mistakes and are better equipped to handle setbacks. It’s important to instill values like respect, empathy, and responsibility in children at a young age. By disciplining our children, we are preparing them for the challenges of adulthood.
Key points emphasized in the article:
- Discipline helps children develop resilience and cope with failures.
- Shielding children from any form of criticism can have negative consequences.
- It’s important to teach children the value of hard work, respect, and responsibility.
- Discipline should be administered consistently and fairly.
Note: While the article presents a strong case for discipline, it’s important to approach this topic with nuance. The type of discipline, the child’s age, and the family’s cultural background should all be considered when making decisions about parenting.