1. The demise of the 2-parent family unitsnatchel wrote:I just don't understand how it went from, "I want something real bad. I'm going to have to busy my bottom and WORK for it..." to, "I want something real bad. That guys has it, why shouldn't I be given it too?"
1a. The demise of the extended family unit (how many of the parents reading this live nearby your parents and siblings?, not I)
2. The upsurge in both parents working during their childrens' formative years.
3. The combination of #1 and #2 to yield kids that are not sufficiently taught the golden rule, real work ethic and are frequently spoiled as guilty compensation for #2.
4. Societal acceptance (promotion.!) of declining standards, both socially and in work/education.
** Note: I'm 1,000% certain our parents had the same complaints about our generation, but IMO, the decline has been accelerating over the past 25 years.
It's very hard work being involved enough to properly shape a growing child's life. The TIME required cannot be replaced by toys, electronic babysitters, teachers with their own social agenda, or, sadly, a social environment where everyone's special snowflake gets a trophy at the end of the season. Add the pressures of single parenthood or dual-working parents and it's even more so.
I'm sure I left lots of stuff out, but, IMO, the decline of the family unit is the major cause... What are the reasons for the decline of the family unit? ...
One man's considered opinion : http://catholiceducation.org/articles/m ... f0002.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;