Essay Topic: Friends have greater influence on youngsters than parents and teachers. Discuss.

The influence on children’s choices of role models is undoubtedly a complex process influenced by various factors such as circumstances and personality. However, I agree that the prevailing trend among children is to be influenced more by their like-minded friends. In this essay, I will discuss the reasons behind this shift and why children often find themselves following the footsteps of their friends.

One significant reason for this phenomenon is the substantial generational gap between youngsters and their parents. With the advent of the internet, mobile phones, and laptops, communication has evolved, leading to a more globalized culture. This has created a divergence in interests and values between parents and their children. For example, parents from a different era might struggle to comprehend the popularity of contemporary pop and rock culture among today’s youth.

Moreover, circumstances play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s choices. Parents naturally wish for their children to follow in their footsteps and adopt their approaches to life. However, changing circumstances and evolving societal norms often render these traditional methods obsolete or impractical. As a result, children may feel compelled to abandon their parents’ ways and instead align themselves with like-minded peers who share their contemporary views. For instance, parents might encourage early marriages, but economic challenges and personal ambitions in the modern world may make such notions impractical.

In conclusion, the shift in influence from parents and teachers to friends among youngsters is largely driven by changing circumstances and a more globalized environment. The generational gap and evolving societal norms contribute to children seeking guidance and inspiration from their like-minded friends rather than their parents. While this shift might be viewed as a negative development, it reflects the independence and critical thinking abilities of the newer generation, enabling them to navigate a rapidly changing world.