Statement: It has been said that in most societies children are often spectators watching adults interact. They are learning what it means to be an adult in their society. In American society, however, the adults are usually the spectators who are watching the children.
I have some findings from my observations in two places. Firstly, the aforementioned statement is so prevalent in sports events like a football game, hockey game, basketball game or soccer match. The adults are always very supportive to their children's game. Whenever they are free, they will spend time watching their children playing, shouting for them on top of their voice to give their support. Occasionally, you will hear some emotional parents swearing at other players who offended their beloved offspring. However, in Malaysia, I don't really see parents going to a field to support their children, be it a soccer match, badminton tournament or ping pong game. The reason, I believe, is they don't enjoy watching that or spending time that way.
My second observation was in restaurants. The parents are so loving that they will cater to every need of their children. For example, they will buy their children an ice-cream, if they request; they will buy them a dessert, if they want. In McDonald, adults will watch their children playing at the playground to ensure the safety. Besides that, I believe they also enjoy watching their children having fun at the playground. In Malaysia, the situation is almost the same for most parents. Nevertheless, some conscientious parents will not cater to every need or request from children. For instance, some parents will say having too much ice-cream is not good and reject their children's request. Another example, some will not buy their children soda like Coca-cola even if their children requested because they think it is not good for their health at this age.
All in all, I'd say that American parents, in general, are more loving and sensitive to their children's feeling.
Good observation there. :) I agree that American parents are very supportive of whatever their children do..especially for sports. That's something that we can learn from them. BUt as for fulfilling the kids' demands...don't you think that it would spoil the kids?
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't say that they are more loving here because every parent loves their children even though they might show it in different things. And buying a child everything they want doesn't mean that they are more loving. What do you think>
ReplyDeleteParents go to their children's sporting events to encourage their children, to help them be confident and know that they are important and loved. Parent's also want to have a close relationship with thier children and this is one way to help that relationship out.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Karin's comment, by the way.
I am not quite convince that loving a child must buy them the things they want. Anyway, good observations.
ReplyDeleteWe have the same in my country; most parents don't go to their children's games. Actually, it doesn't make a difference if they attend to the game, it wouldn't make me love them more.
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