Although the family has traditionally been regarded as the primary influence on a child’s development, some people argue that external factors now have a greater impact on young people’s lives. I largely agree with this view because children are increasingly exposed to educational institutions, peer groups and digital media, although parental guidance remains fundamental to their upbringing.
On the one hand, the family continues to play a crucial role in shaping a child’s character and behaviour. Parents are usually the first people to teach children basic values, social norms and interpersonal skills. Through everyday interactions, children learn concepts such as honesty, responsibility and respect, which can have a lasting influence on their personality. Moreover, a supportive family environment can provide emotional security and guidance when children encounter difficulties. For example, parents who encourage their children to communicate openly and learn from their mistakes are likely to raise individuals who are more confident and resilient. Therefore, the influence of parents should not be underestimated, particularly during the early stages of childhood.
Nevertheless, I believe that factors outside the home have become increasingly influential as children grow older. Firstly, schools occupy a substantial proportion of young people’s daily lives. Teachers not only provide academic knowledge but also shape students’ attitudes, aspirations and ways of interacting with others. Equally importantly, children are strongly influenced by their peers, as they often seek acceptance from friends and adapt their behaviour to fit into a social group. Secondly, the rapid expansion of digital technology has exposed children to an unprecedented amount of information and a wide range of lifestyles. Social media, online celebrities and digital entertainment can influence their opinions, consumer habits and even their perceptions of success. In many cases, these influences may be stronger than parental advice because young people spend considerable amounts of time engaging with online content and their peers.
In conclusion, while parents remain indispensable in establishing a child’s fundamental values and emotional foundation, I agree that external influences play a greater role nowadays, particularly as children become more independent. The combined effects of schools, peer relationships and digital media increasingly shape how young people think, behave and view the world.