Children

United States
May 6, 2010 2:17pm CST
Many times in our lives we have heard of some child doing something stupid or against the law. Most times this child is 12+ years of age. One of the responses we tend to see and/or give is "Where were the parents?" or "Blame the parents!" My question is "Who is truly responsible for raising our children? Why?"
2 responses
• United States
6 May 10
The parent is ultaimately responsible for thier minor. I know that it takes a "village" or entire family unit to make sure children learn right from wrong but if the parents do no enforce what is being taught then there is where the problems start. Children will try to get away with whatever they think they can, we have all done it. So yes, the child is responsible for the action but since they are a minor and unless if is an offense that is punishable by law, the parent is responsible for administering punishment. If children learn at an early age that there is a consequence for their action then they are less like to do things they are not suppose to.
• United States
6 May 10
Thank you. I would agree with your answer for the most part. The one thing I would add to it is that the "Village" also needs to take more responsibility for raising the children. Too many times we hear "It is not my child." or "If that were my child." kind of answers. The parents and children of my area know that if their child does something wrong and I see it I am going to take that child to their house and have a chat with their parents about it. They also know that I expect the same form them where my child is concerned. More people need to do the same. Not just say "I don't like that kid. He is a trouble maker." Fine maybe he is but talk to his parents about it.
• United States
6 May 10
So true Rev, and it is good that you can do that. But is so many areas parents get down right nasty if you say something about the way thier child is acting. I usually give them a look that for some reason kids understand that means you knock it off now or I may hurt you. LOL Usually this works and I don't have to worry about the parents. Or if it is someone I know I will certainly say something to their parents becuase often kids know that if they acted that way around their parents there would be trouble for sure.
• United States
6 May 10
The parents are responsible for raising their own children, but however, these little monsters do grow up fast, with a mind of their own. I'm a parent and a darn good one at that, but hey, us parents should give ourselves a break and pat one another on the backs, for a job well done. Parents can do a many things, but miracles aren't included.
• United States
6 May 10
It is true that parents are ultimately responsible for their kids. This being said however how much time do you think parents have with their kids in a single day. How about a week? Most parents do not work only during the hours their children are at school. Even if they did how much time does that child spend at home after school. Most kids are out with their friends after school. This leaves parents with very little time to try to instill morals on to those children. Much of our morals are taught not only by parents but also by school, friends, media, and other family members. Because these venues have so much time invested in these youngsters they need to realize the impact they have on the rearing of these children and respond accordingly.