Nowadays, it is argued that many families do not spend time together to have meals, unlike in the past. It is one of the common topics for debates among people. In this essay, I will discuss my perspective along with my ideas and examples.
Firstly, the primary reason is modern technological development. For example, most of the people tend to watch movies or use mobile phones during meals, which prevents quality time. Another reason is having a full-time job and a busy schedule. For instance, people who live in big cities such as London encounter an overwhelmingly busy schedule in order to make ends meet. As a result, it brings numerous drawbacks in family life, such as not spending time with loved ones.
On the other hand, there are plenty of negative impacts about having family meals together. While family meals can promote bonding, they can also become a source of conflict, especially if there are unresolved issues or tensions among family members. Another disadvantage is that preparing regular family meals requires effort, time, and planning, which can place extra pressure on parents, especially those who work full-time or manage multiple responsibilities. Finally, it often involves conversation and social interaction, which may be challenging for introverted family members who prefer quieter settings.
In contrast, there are many benefits to having family meals together traditionally. The main advantage is that it leads to an ideal opportunity for open communication and bonding, such as sharing stories, discussing their day, and connecting on a personal level. Not only that, but it also brings healthier food choices. Home-cooked meals tend to be more nutritious than fast food, with more balanced portions of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Besides, it reduces the risk of risky behaviors in teenagers. According to the studies, teenagers who eat with their families regularly are less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, smoking, or skipping school.
In conclusion, despite the downside, traditionally having family meals together plays an essential role in people’s lives in order to create healthy bonds. Personally, I strongly believe that regardless of the busy schedule, it is crucial to balance work life and personal life.