Discipline or Disaster? A Call for Responsible Parenting

November 6, 2025: Across India today, the headlines are filled with stories about our youth — and not always for the right reasons. We see young people falling into drug addiction at worrying ages, driving recklessly for thrill, and showing a disturbing lack of respect towards women through teasing, harassment, and indecent behaviour. Obscene language, physical misconduct, and even sexual violence have become part of a grim reality that can no longer be ignored.

The Culture of Extravagance and Indulgence

We watch as some take money from their parents only to spend it extravagantly on fleeting personal whims—funding smoking, the use of narcotic substances and excessive drinking. Such alarming trends are not stagnating; they are visibly, aggressively growing.

Adding to this, the digital age has given them a new platform. Through social media, they share inappropriate content, post disrespectful remarks about women, and maintain numerous undisclosed online connections. Adding to the breakdown of external respect is a noticeable erosion within the home: disrespect towards elders, teachers, and parents has become widespread. The simple, unifying habit of eating meals together—morning, noon, or night—has all but vanished in many homes, as family members rarely spend time in meaningful conversation or joyful interaction.

A Mirror to Parental Leniency

This brings us to a necessary, uncomfortable question: As responsible parents, have we failed in our duty?

Have we, through excessive leniency—pampering our "only son" or "only daughter," granting money freely, and avoiding scrutiny of where they go or with whom they spend time—unwittingly contributed to today’s rising tide of youth crime? When we coax them to eat, plead with them to wake up, allow them to sleep late, and immediately buy whatever they request, are we not fostering their unchecked behavior?

We once saw changes in appearance, yet called it fashion. Now, other concerning habits are seen as normal, even among young women and we, the elders, turn a blind eye.

The Spiritual Drift in Catholic Homes

Specifically within our Catholic families, we must look inward. How many of our youth, boys and girls alike, remain in Holy Mass with full attention and genuine participation? Are they regularly seeking the grace of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and other sacraments? Have we ensured they attended catechism classes faithfully from their school days?

It seems we once held the "reins" firmly in our hands, but instead of applying the necessary discipline, we let them slip. Now, our younger generation is, quite literally, running wild.

It is the essential duty of parents to model a blend of love, discipline, modesty, firmness, and gentleness. In too many Catholic homes, we have neglected the foundational truth: “A family that prays together, stays together.”

A Call to Transformation, Not Lamentation

We elders must stop merely lamenting the state of affairs and commit to transforming our approach. Let us set a good example. We must proactively teach human values, instill respect for women, and constantly remind them that life holds greater goals than immediate gratification.

We must guide them to focus their energy, develop their skills, and rise with enthusiasm in this competitive world. Let us encourage adherence to the teachings of the Church. If daily devotion isn't achieved, we must at least urge them to attend Holy Mass once a week.

Though the new generation navigates novel challenges and discovers new talents, we must never compromise on preserving family discipline and the moral foundations—for the FAMILY is the basic unit.

We often praise the progress of Western nations, but alongside their economic success, we should notice the rigorous training, discipline, and self-improvement lessons our youth can emulate.

Let us lovingly watch over where our children go, when they return, and with whom they associate. This is the critical moment to display both affection and vigilance. After all, there are countless paths leading astray, but only a few companions on the right road.

We must be the unwavering inspiration that directs our youth to choose the correct path, to persevere through obstacles, and to achieve true greatness. We must train them to withstand peer pressure. Encourage them to read the Bible regularly, offer small prayers often, participate actively in Holy Mass, and converse with the Lord with genuine devotion and eagerness.

As the scripture warns, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

K. M. Selvaraj Editor,

Catholic News Update Asia E-Journal