1 of 3

No

Write now Article Tools

At one time a child's habits, moral values and beliefs were mainly influence by the parents. But as Bob Dylan so wisely put it 'The Times They Are A Changing'.

It's early morning and the house is beginning to stir. Both Mom & Dad are getting ready for work, the kids preparing for the school day. Early morning is a hectic time for families and with all the hustle and bustle there is very little time for parents and children to interact. Everyone's doing their own thing and not paying attention to anyone else. What have the kids learned this morning? Probably nothing except how to fight for the bathroom. Now off to work and school.

Kids in school today are generally left to discover themselves, barring illegal activities and destructive behavior. Here they learn to interact with, and act like others. It's all part of the fitting in procedure. Children will decide early on what type of people they'd like to hang out with and adapt behavior which will help them be accepted into that crowd. Personalities and habits are both formed this way and cannot readily be turned off and on like a light switch.

These nuances must be learned from somewhere though, but where? Children arrive home to empty houses and must occupy their time. The ever popular electronic babysitter, (T.V), gets switched on and our kids are bombarded with images of cool characters and sexy stars. When the coolest guy on the planets starts saying "Whatever" then your kids start too. If he chews or smokes, kids try that too. They're trying to be cool by association. Pictures of super models have influenced thousands of teens, telling them this is what you should look like to get the best cars, guys and laundry detergent. Kids will pick up the habits of their heroes and act like their heroes act, whether good or bad.

Which of these habits a child holds on to through life depends on the influence of family though. If a parent allows a particular habit to continue the child figures it must be okay because mom and dad don't care. Family relationships are very important here. If a child has already decided that mom and dad don't know anything, a child may do the exact opposite of what a parent wants. On the other hand, a good family relationship might make the child realize that his habit upsets mom and dad and he needs to do something about it. Parents can sit around and talk negatively about boys growing hair long, tattoos, weird clothing and a variety of other sins that they disapprove of. A child who respects their parents will take this into consideration when making life decisions.

So while most bad habits are learned from peers and media, it's still the parents responsibility to let their opinions on what's good and bad be known. Ultimately, the child will make a decision on his own. Who has the most influence over your child? Friends or family.

Learn more about this author, Michael Ray.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Are children's habits learned from their parents??
We want to hear your view. Write now!