In countless Indian homes, behind the walls of tradition and discipline, there exists a silent struggle—children burdened by pressure, judged by grades, and disciplined not with understanding, but with fear. It's a reality rarely spoken about, yet deeply felt.
A Culture of Expectations
Indian parents often want the best for their children. They dream of success—stable jobs, good marriages, and social respect. But in chasing that dream, they sometimes forget to ask: What does the child want?
From the moment a child enters school, the pressure begins. Topping the class becomes a duty. Failure isn’t just academic—it's seen as shame. In many homes, love feels conditional: “Do well, and we’ll be proud. Fail, and you’ll be a disappointment.” This mindset creates anxiety, not inspiration.
Harsh Parenting: Discipline or Damage?
Many parents still believe in strict, old-fashioned discipline—shouting, comparison, even physical punishment. While they may not mean harm, the effects can be lasting. Harsh parenting often leads to low self-esteem, fear, and broken communication. Children stop sharing their feelings, dreams, and struggles. They begin to hide—behind fake smiles, forced goals, and even silence.
The Impact on Mental Health
The pressure to be “perfect” has a cost. Depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts are rising among Indian youth. In a society where mental health is still a taboo, these issues often go unnoticed or dismissed as "drama" or "disobedience."
Change Begins with Listening
Parenting doesn’t have to be harsh to be effective. What children need most is understanding. A safe space to speak without fear. A parent who listens not just to words, but to silence. Children are not projects to be perfected—they are souls to be nurtured.
A Call for Compassion
It's time we shift from pressure to support, from control to connection. Love must be louder than expectations. Respect must go both ways. And parenting must evolve—not to break a child into shape, but to build a human who can fly.
— By Ｒeℋαη