Student behavior in classrooms has deteriorated, especially during the last five years; and “permissive parenting” is to blame, according to recent studies and interviews with educators.
A Cambridge University study indicates disruptions caused by ill-behaved pupils as one of teachers’ most troublesome concerns. Two of the researchers, Professors Maurice Galton and John Macbeath, heard many teachers blame parents for their inability or unwillingness to control children at home. (Story continues below.)
Discussion Starters
1.) According to the story, student behavior has changed for the worse in the last five years. Does this ring true for the students with whom you work? What role is faith or religion having on their outward actions?
2.) Financial affluence is cited in the story as being a significant factor in student behavior. Do you see a similar trend among your group, and if so, what do you do to offset these circumstances?
3.) Some might argue manipulation is a human tendency for everyone. The story implies children are learning at very young ages to manipulate their elders. Have you experienced this in your ministry and / or other work with students?
4.) Bible passages, such as
Researchers, commissioned by the National Union of Teachers in England, said an increasing number of students lack the social skills necessary to get along well in class, largely due to overly indulgent parents, who either are trying to keep peace or have exhausted their discipline resources.
The problem increases as wealth among families decreases, as researchers noted there are “formidable challenges” in poorer areas, where there’s an “increase in the incidence of confrontation and conflict.”
What’s more, motivating students to learn and perform is increasingly difficult because, as teachers claim, by the time children reach school age, they’ve become adept at manipulating adults.
