Strict Parenting Makes It Harder To Deal With Failure

There is no doubt that strict parenting has some benefits, such as teaching discipline and responsibility, developing strong work ethics, and setting high standards. It provides structure and guidance, but finding a balance between boundaries and allowing exploration is crucial. Open and effective communication is key in fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. Today, on The Chenab Times, I am shedding light on potential challenges that children may face when raised in an excessively stringent environment.

Disadvantages of Strict Parenting

Strict parenting can lead to resentment, rebellion, and a lack of independence in children. It may hinder their decision-making and problem-solving abilities. It’s essential for parents to consider the long-term impact on their children’s mental and emotional well-being.

Parents may believe strict parenting is necessary for raising disciplined, well-mannered, responsible, and confident adults, but research suggests otherwise. Authoritative parenting has been shown to erode a child’s confidence, self-esteem, and decision-making abilities.

According to a study by the Royal University of Phnom Penh in 2015, over 60% of students and staff attributed anxiety or depression to harsh parenting. Authoritarian parenting, being rigid, is associated with poor outcomes.

Ontologist and Mental Health Expert Aashmeen Munjaal emphasizes that overly strict parenting may negatively impact a child’s growth and well-being, affecting social, psychological, emotional, and mental aspects, according to Hindustan Times.

Considering the “3 Idiots” movie, I’ve realized that in terms of practicality and real-life experiences, there hasn’t been much change. Children under strict parenting face complications, as depicted by Farhan’s character. He struggled to confront his goals in front of his father. I personally became aware of this when I asked a friend about her frustration, and she attributed it to strict parenting. This made me realize that it truly affects a person psychologically. Her story mirrors the struggles and triumphs seen in Farhan’s journey. Thus, strict parenting could be a factor in undermining a child’s decision-making ability.

Societal Pressure

Society plays a pivotal role in a child’s life after parents. Strict parenting can lead to children feeling unable to express their desires or pursue their passions due to societal expectations. Creating a supportive environment with open communication is crucial to help children navigate societal pressures.

As far as I am concerned, after parents, society is the second biggest and pivotal aspect of a child’s life. As we live in society, we learn from our interactions with the people around us. We learn from their experiences, perspectives, and ways of thinking. By engaging with society, we broaden our horizons and develop a better understanding of the world. So, being a part of society provides us with valuable opportunities for learning and growth.

However, we have created a society in which a child that grows up under strict parenting and authority figures may never have the courage to say they want to pursue what they love. As I mentioned in the story of my friend, if a child wants to work in their field, such arguments are seen as disrespectful in our society. If they express their ideas, parents may abandon them, leaving them to tread alone. It’s like being in a car race without fuel – winning becomes impossible.

Indistinguishably, the pressure of society on children can be overwhelming and have a significant impact on their mental health. It’s important for parents and caregivers to create a supportive environment that encourages open communication and helps children develop resilience to navigate societal expectations.

While parents may believe strictness stems from love, it can negatively affect a child’s health. Expressing love and affection fosters a strong bond. Parents should understand the impact of their strict behavior on their children’s growth. Encouraging flexibility and keeping up with changing times can positively influence a child’s choices and overall well-being.

The love of parents is a powerful force that can shape a child’s life, providing a sense of security, support, and unconditional acceptance. It’s important for parents to express their love and affection to their children as it fosters a strong bond and promotes emotional well-being.

Parents need to understand that being too strict can have a negative impact on their children’s growth. Children are not solely responsible for failures; parents should broaden their minds, stay updated with the times, and avoid insisting that their children strictly follow their directives.

This is why choosing an unconventional career isn’t even an option, as parents may not be open to unconventional career paths.

(The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Chenab Times.)

Follow us on

Salman Wani

Salman Wani is a contributor at The Chenab Times. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Political Science at Jammu University.