The Shift In Indian Parenting, From Strict To Supportive

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the way Indian parents bring up their children. Gone are the days when strict parenting was the norm, and being too friendly with kids was considered a weakness. Today’s parents understand that building a healthy relationship with their children is crucial.

One of the main reasons for this shift is the changing mindset of parents. With the rise of the internet and social media, parents these days are more aware of their child’s development. They understand that children need a nurturing environment to grow and learn. And at the same time being too strict can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Another reason for this change is the influence of western culture. Many Indian parents who have lived or studied abroad have experienced a more relaxed and open approach to parenting. They bring this mindset back home and try to implement it in their own families.

Furthermore, today’s children are growing up in a very different world than their parents did. With the increase in competition, academic pressure, and exposure to technology, children need more support and guidance than ever before. Parents who are too strict may not be able to provide this support and may even exacerbate the stress that their children are already experiencing.

Instead of being too strict, Indian parents today are focusing on building a healthy relationship with their children. They try to be more approachable, communicate better, and listen to their children’s concerns. They understand that their children are individuals with their unique personalities, and they try to respect and nurture their individuality.

Indian parents are also focusing on creating a supportive and positive environment for their children. They encourage their children to pursue their interests, participate in extracurricular activities, and explore their creativity. They also try to instill good values and morals in their children, such as honesty, kindness, and empathy.

To gain a clearer understanding of different parenting styles, we can draw a comparison between two Tamil movies –

“Em Magan” and “Vaaranam Aayiram”

In the Tamil film “Em Magan,” the parenting style is portrayed as strict and overbearing. Bharath has a strained relationship with his father due to his strict upbringing. Despite his father’s good intentions, the pressure and control he imposed on Bharath caused him to feel isolated and depressed. This type of parenting can have a detrimental effect on a child’s mental health and well-being. In today’s world, children need a safe and supportive environment to express themselves and seek guidance from their parents.

On the other hand, the film “Varanam Ayiram” presents a more positive and nurturing approach to parenting. Surya, the main character, has a close and open relationship with his father, who acts as a supportive friend and guide. Surya is comfortable sharing his thoughts and feelings with his father, and this relationship helps him navigate the challenges he faces in life. This kind of understanding and supportive parenting can help children develop healthy self-esteem and confidence, as well as promote positive mental health and well-being.

Now, it’s time to reflect on your parenting style.

Are you too strict or too lenient? Are you providing a nurturing and supportive environment for your children? Take a moment to assess your approach to parenting and consider how you can improve it for the benefit of your children.

So, readers, what is your parenting style? Do you agree with the opinion presented in this article? Let’s start a conversation and share your thoughts on this important topic.