Freedom is always a matter of controversy as there is no particular rule or limit to it. Each person has their own definition of freedom. In a similar way, allowing young children to make their own decisions on basic matters has brought up different views from different groups of people. In this essay, different avenues on the given topic will be explored to help us decide on the amount of freedom children should be given without hampering their personality.
It is a common belief that to make one strong, one should be allowed to take their own decisions and fight their fears, even if they do not succeed in the end. In the same way, in the developing years of a child, he/she should be allowed to make decisions, even if they are minor ones, like clothes, food, entertainment. If their decision-making qualities are cultivated from an early age, they will become independent individuals when they grow up. But, some people think that the trait of individuality is synonymous with being selfish or caring less about other individuals. This is because they tend to generalize the concept that if one without taking others into consideration, it is selfishness. Being self-centered has nothing to do with from a young age. They can be egotistical for different reasons like pampering, lack of guidance, , among others.
In some cases, young children tend to get used to making decisions on their own and get diverted in the process. For example, a child is allowed to eat junk food all the time and spend his time idling with friends. If he continues to do this on his own, after a certain time, his health might be affected, or he might end up with wrong ‘friends’. As they grow up, they are accustomed to the idea that as it is their life, all decisions should be theirs alone. This might make them impervious to the needs of others or their needs before others.
To conclude, I would like to say that the role of the parents or elders is extremely crucial in the development of decision-making and the amiable personality of an individual. If the child is not properly guided at home, he/she can become narrow-minded. So, it is the close relatives who can mentor the young generation to grow on their own and at the same time instill a sense of responsibility and help them understand the difference between right and wrong. It will not only help them in the long run but also create a better society for everyone.