Nowadays, children are influenced by many factors, including television, friends and music. Some people believe that these external influences have become more important than family, while others argue that family still remains the strongest influence. In my opinion, although modern influences are powerful, family and relatives remain the most important factor in a child’s development.
From one perspective, television, music and friends can significantly alter a children’s behaviour and opinions. Children spend considerable amounts of time watching programmes, listening to songs and using social media, so they may copy the language, the fashion or attitudes of people they see. Friends can also have a strong influence, particularly during adolescence. For example, teenagers may become interested in sports, hobbies or even unhealthy habits because their friends encourage them to participate. Therefore, it is clear that external weight can shape a child’s personality and choices.
On the other hand, family has a deeper and more lasting influence. Parents are generally the first people who teach children how to behave, communicate and distinguish between right and wrong. They also provide emotional support and establish important values, such as honesty, respect and responsability. For instance, a child whose guardians regularly encourage reading and studying is likely to develop positive educational habits. Even when children become teenagers and spend more time with friends, the values learned at home can continue to guide their decisions.
In conlcusion, modern media and friendships clearly affect children’s development. However, I believe that family remains the most important influence because parents shape children’s basic values, behaviour and emotional development from an early age.