Muslim World Report

The Parenting Crisis: Civic Responsibility and Children's Behavior in India

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | May 2, 2025 1:56 PM | 5 min read | 1041 words

TL;DR: A decline in children’s behavior in India is linked to parenting practices that neglect civic responsibility. This post explores the crisis of parenting and offers solutions to foster accountability and positive community engagement.

Editorial: The Unseen Crisis of Parenting and Civic Responsibility in India

In recent weeks, a simple interaction on a bus sparked a reflection on the deeper societal issues plaguing our cities. A woman, educated and seemingly enlightened, chose to disregard both civic responsibility and common decency by throwing trash out of the window, even as she fed her child from a parcel. When confronted, rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, she and her companion launched into a defensive tirade against me, asserting that my moral stance was unwarranted because of her educational background.

This encounter is not merely a trivial incident; it encapsulates a pervasive mindset that threatens the very fabric of our society. The reaction to my request was disheartening yet familiar. It reflects a troubling trend in India where individuals have become so defensive about their realities that they lash out at those who dare to voice concerns about our urban environments.

The Importance of Civic Responsibility

In this context, we might ask ourselves:

  • What if we could transform this defensive posture into proactive engagement with civic responsibility?
  • What if we collectively made a commitment to nurture our children as responsible citizens?

The comment section of this incident, filled with vitriol and dismissiveness, showcases a collective unwillingness to acknowledge the very real problems we face in our cities. It is a microcosm of a larger issue—many individuals seem resigned to live in conditions that would be unacceptable in any developed nation, yet they expect silence from those who have experienced better.

This defensive attitude is symptomatic of a broader societal malaise: an unwillingness to confront the realities of our urban spaces. We are bombarded daily with reminders of this struggle, from the litter that clutters our streets to the chaos that reigns in public transport. This dismissal of such issues is not merely a sign of complacency; it reflects a deeper entitlement mentality that has taken root in our culture.

Parenting and Child Behavior

Many parents exhibit a disconcerting lack of accountability, allowing their children to behave in ways that are disruptive and disrespectful both in public and private spaces (Lenzi et al., 2013; White & Mistry, 2015). Consider the alarming incidents reported by fellow citizens:

  • Children running amok in public spaces
  • Parents oblivious to their behavior
  • A general lack of discipline that permeates parenting today

The rise of “smartphone parenting” has created a generation of children who are entertained, but not taught. Instead of instilling values of respect and consideration for others, many parents seem content to disengage, prioritizing their own convenience over the socialization and moral development of their children (Yardley et al., 2015).

The Crisis of Collective Responsibility

What if we could reverse this trend by:

  • Actively engaging our children in community service
  • Teaching them the importance of empathy and respect for public spaces?

Involving children in clean-up drives or community beautification projects could instill a sense of pride and belonging. Educational researchers emphasize the vital role of parental civic engagement in instilling a sense of accountability in children (Medlin, 2013; Portes, 1998). Studies show that parents who exhibit civic responsibility positively influence their children’s understanding of social duty, cultivating a culture where respect for others and community becomes paramount.

Intergenerational Dialogue and Community Engagement

Furthermore, let’s consider the potential benefits of intergenerational dialogue. What if we encouraged conversations between parents and their children about the importance of civic duty and respect for community resources? How transformative could it be for children to hear these values reinforced not only at home but also from elders in the community, creating a more cohesive societal fabric?

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, we must not forget the importance of teaching our children to respect both people and places. While it’s easy to become disillusioned by the overwhelming challenges we face, we must also recognize the beauty and potential of our country. India is rich in culture, history, and resilience. Let us harness these strengths, focusing on what makes our communities vibrant and engaging.

Roadmap for Change: “What If” Scenarios

While the challenges of parenting today are immense, the potential for positive change rests within our grasp. We can explore “What if” scenarios that promote responsibility and engagement:

  • What if local governments initiated programs to promote community service among children and families?
  • What if schools partnered with parents to incorporate civic education into the curriculum?
  • What if parents formed support groups focused on sharing best practices in parenting, aiming to develop civic-minded children?

As someone who returned to India after years abroad, I understand the challenges of adjusting to life here. However, I also recognize the necessity of engaging with these issues head-on. While we work towards change, we must create spaces for dialogue and growth, encouraging not just criticism but constructive solutions.

Conclusion

The journey toward fostering a responsible society begins with small, intentional actions. Each individual effort contributes to the larger fabric of community and civic responsibility. We can inspire change, but it requires unity, commitment, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our future generations. Together, we can cultivate a culture that nurtures respect, accountability, and a sense of belonging, thereby ensuring that our children grow up in environments that reflect the very best of what we can achieve.

References

Amin, S. (2005). Cultural Heritage, Urban Spaces, and Community Engagement in India. Journal of Urban Culture Studies, 12(4), 56-72.

Lenzi, M., et al. (2013). Parenting Practices and Child Adjustment: The Role of Civic Engagement. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 18(2), 109-128.

Medlin, R. (2013). Parental Engagement in Civic Life: Implications for Parenting and Education. Educational Studies, 39(3), 305-318.

Portes, A. (1998). Social Capital: Its Origins and Applications in Modern Sociology. Annual Review of Sociology, 24, 1-24.

White, L. M., & Mistry, R. S. (2015). Parental Socialization and Civic Engagement: The Role of Parenting in Fostering Civic Responsibility. Journal of Family Issues, 36(11), 1473-1495.

Yardley, L., et al. (2015). Parenting in the Digital Age: The Impact of Technology on Parenting Practices. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 24(1), 1-16.

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