Are we raising a generation of kids who struggle to cope with real-life challenges?
Are we raising a generation of kids who struggle to cope with real-life challenges, or are we simply witnessing a new generation adapting to a very different world?
Times have changed, and so have parenting styles.
Parents raising Gen Z and Gen Alpha children are navigating a very different world from the one they knew as kids.
Children’s habits have also changed significantly. Unlike previous generations, who spent much of their time playing outdoors and interacting with other children, today’s kids are growing up in a digital world. The rise of smartphones, social media, and unlimited internet access has reshaped how young people see themselves and the world around them.
As all these changes are happening, the big question remains: Are we raising a generation who can't handle 'real life' challenges?
Kids don't raise themselves in a vacuum
How children turn out is largely influenced by their environment - the home and society they grow up in.
Parenting styles also play a significant role in how children perceive and navigate the world around them.
A parent or guardian’s primary responsibility is not only to love, protect, provide and care for their children but also to prepare them for the realities of life. Instilling values such as respect, perseverance, accountability, and hard work can go a long way in shaping the adults they will eventually become.
The influence of social media
Platforms such as Instagram often present carefully curated versions of people’s lives. This can create unrealistic standards of beauty, wealth, and success. Many young people find themselves comparing themselves to the highlight reels they see online, leading to increased pressure and unrealistic expectations.
Unrealistic expectations about real success
The awarding of participation trophies and certificates simply for taking part may send the message that effort alone deserves reward, regardless of the outcome. Some people believe this can create unrealistic expectations about how success in the real world, where achievement often requires persistence, discipline, and the ability to cope with failure.
Mental health challenges
Mental health is another growing concern. According to reports from the South African government, suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15 to 29. Increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges have raised questions about whether modern pressures, including social media, are affecting the resilience of younger generations and affecting how they cope with real-life issues.
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