By Ewere Okonta
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Have you ever noticed how people throw around titles like “CEO,” “Doctor,” or “Engineer” with so much respect, but when you say someone is a “Parent,” it doesn’t quite carry the same weight? Strange, right? Because, let’s be honest—what’s harder than raising another human being from scratch? No instruction manual, no guaranteed formula, just a mix of love, patience, trial and error, and a whole lot of sleepless nights.
Parenting is the most important job in the world, yet it’s one of the most underrated. It’s a full-time role with no salary, no days off, and no formal training. You don’t get to resign, and the “boss” (your child) can sometimes be the most demanding little human on earth. And still, society often fails to give parents the credit they deserve.
Parenting: The Toughest, Most Fulfilling Job
Let’s get one thing straight—being a parent is no joke. It’s not just about buying clothes, paying school fees, or ensuring there’s food on the table. That’s the bare minimum. Real parenting is about shaping values, instilling discipline, building confidence, and preparing a child to face the world.
Good parents don’t just raise children—they raise future leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens. They teach empathy, kindness, and resilience. They pass on cultural heritage, life skills, and even survival instincts. And yet, many parents feel unappreciated, as if their efforts go unnoticed.
Ever seen a well-behaved, respectful child and thought, “Wow, their parents did a great job”? That’s because parenting, when done right, reflects in a child’s character. But, unfortunately, the same applies when it’s done wrong.
Why Do Some Parents Get It Wrong?
Now, let’s be real—not all parents get it right, and it’s not always their fault. Parenting is tough, and several factors can lead to bad parenting.
- Lack of Knowledge
Not everyone was raised in a home that provided a good example of parenting. Some parents unknowingly repeat the mistakes of their own parents simply because it’s all they know. They might think, *“Well, I turned out fine,”* without realizing that they could do better for their own kids.
- Economic Pressure
Let’s not pretend—raising a child is expensive. Many parents are juggling multiple jobs, trying to put food on the table, and barely have time to spend with their kids. When parents are constantly stressed about survival, they may neglect the emotional and moral development of their children.
- Overindulgence or Neglect
There are two extremes—some parents are too strict, creating rebellious children, while others are too lenient, raising entitled kids. Finding the right balance is key. Spoiling a child without teaching responsibility or constantly saying “Yes” to avoid tantrums doesn’t do them any favors.
- The Influence of Society and Social Media
These days, parents are competing with Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for their child’s attention. Kids are exposed to so much information—some good, some toxic. A parent could be doing their best at home, but one wrong influence outside can undo everything.
Why Good Parenting is a Win-Win for Everyone
Good parenting isn’t just beneficial to the child; it’s a win for the parents and society as a whole. Let’s break it down:
- The Parents Benefit Too
Think about it—when you raise a well-behaved, respectful, and independent child, life gets easier for you. A responsible child won’t give you sleepless nights or unnecessary stress. They will grow up to support you emotionally and, if needed, financially. Nobody wants to grow old worrying about a reckless, wayward child.
- The Child Benefits Even More
A child raised with love, discipline, and proper guidance will grow up with confidence, strong moral values, and the ability to make good life choices. They’ll know how to navigate life’s challenges and build meaningful relationships. In short, they’ll be set up for success.
- Society Wins Big Time
Let’s be real—many of society’s problems today stem from bad parenting. Crime rates, corruption, lack of empathy, entitlement, laziness—many of these issues can be traced back to childhood upbringing. Imagine a world where every parent took their job seriously. The result? More responsible citizens, fewer criminals, better leaders, and a healthier society overall.
So, Who is to Blame for a Child’s Bad Upbringing?
This is a debate as old as time. Is it the parents? The child? Or society? The truth is, all three play a role.
– Parents are the first teachers. They set the foundation. If they fail to instill good values early on, the child is likely to struggle in adulthood.
– The Child also has personal responsibility. At some point, they must choose between right and wrong, regardless of how they were raised. Some kids break free from bad parenting and become outstanding individuals. Others, despite a good upbringing, choose a different path.
– Society plays a huge role too. The world is filled with negative influences—bad role models, toxic media content, and peer pressure. Even a well-raised child can go astray if they fall into the wrong crowd.
Bottom line? It takes a village. Parents must lay a strong foundation, children must make wise choices, and society must create an environment that supports good values.
How Parents and Children Can Make It Easier for Each Other
Parenting should not feel like a battle. Children also have a role to play in making their parents’ jobs easier.
For Parents:
– Be present. Kids need time and attention more than expensive gifts.
– Lead by example. You can’t tell a child to be honest while lying in front of them.
– Balance discipline with love. Too much of either is harmful.
For Children:
– Listen. Your parents may not be perfect, but they want the best for you.
– Show gratitude. A simple “Thank you” means a lot.
– Understand that discipline is love. When they correct you, it’s not to hurt you—it’s to make you better.
Final Thoughts: Parenting Deserves More Respect
Parenting is not just a duty—it’s a calling. It shapes the future, determines the kind of leaders we will have, and ultimately influences the world we live in. So, let’s start treating it with the respect it deserves.
To all parents out there—your work matters. You are raising the future. And to every child reading this—cut your parents some slack; they’re trying their best.
So, what do you think? Who do you believe plays the biggest role in a child’s upbringing—parents, the child, or society? Let’s talk!
This is my Sunday Sermon from my pulpit.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.