Total Freedom

There are two contrasting attitudes toward children's upbringing. Some parents believe it's good for children and youngsters to be allowed to run wild without any control or supervision. They claim this approach can help children to achieve their full potential. If children aren't limited too much, their talents will flourish better. They also believe that children or youngsters who are free to try everything will build up stronger personalities because their characters take shape naturally. Such children won't become timid or inhibited; they will be able to express their opinions and emotions freely. They'll be able to form mature relationships with people. Of course children who are given freedom to do everything without guidance and supervision will certainly make mistakes.

The positive point is that when these children make mistakes, they have to take responsibility for their mistakes. They won't put the blame on others and won't hold other people responsible for their mistakes. This way they'll grow up to become mature, responsible adults.

Total freedom approach has disadvantages, too. One disadvantage is that if there's no control or supervision, children might make big mistakes. We know that children are inexperienced. Most of them can't distinguish between good and bad; therefore, they might make mistakes whose consequences can be irreparable. Sometimes one gross error can make you suffer for your whole life.

Another disadvantage of this attitude is that quite a lot of children and youngsters don't have the capacity for freedom. They can be quickly spoiled by freedom. Some of them might turn to crime. This can increase juvenile delinquency. Others might become self-centered and inconsiderate; they show no consideration or appreciation for others; they always put themselves first. Such children usually become thankless. They often take their parents and teachers for granted and they don't appreciate their efforts.