Kids these days, ruder than they used to be?

Have you noticed that kids are getting more and more rude these days? Bethany Sanders over at Parent Dish is blogging about just this topic, and she’s wondering why it’s happening. One pediatrician claims that parents are so involved in their own kids—making sure they’re always happy—that moms and dads don’t stop to consider how their kids are affecting others. As long as their own are happy!

Some experts are blaming the Baby Boomer parents who raised today's crop of Gen-Xers. The Gen-Xers grew up with divorced parents as latchkey kids. Gen-Xers may be trying to provide for their kids what was not given to them. Also, in a time when families are so stressed for funds, parents may just want to have fun with their kids—not dole out discipline.

What do you think? Have you seen rude behavior from kids at the park or in the grocery store? Do you notice a decrease in discipline from other parents? Or do you believe that kids should be coddled more in today’s stressful situations?

Comments

[concerned]

you hit it right on the head! there is no discipline these days with kids. no consequences at all. I can't tell you how many times I hear parents say "If you don't sit down we are going home". Child doesn't sit down and they don't go home. Child has won. Who's in charge? There is NO follow through with parenting today....

[BELL]

We have a situation where I work. My boss's great-granddaughter comes in with her mother several times a week. She's 4 yrs. old and is just terrible. She's allowed to scream at the top of her lungs, slam doors, pour water on the floor, all without any discipline. Our work is completely disrupted and phone calls are a nightmare. Her mother issues empty threats and never follows through. Time-out is just another threat and this child knows that she can get whatever she wants if she gets lound enough. What will she be like at 16?