A Village or Modern Media: The Role in Child Development

The question of whether it takes a village to raise a child or if it is none of the villagers' business arises from a complex interplay of cultural norms and social structures. In our modern world, the roles of community and media in child development have become significantly more pronounced. This essay delves into these dynamics, exploring the perspectives and experiences of a parent who believes in the importance of an extended support system and the paradoxes posed by contemporary media.

Thrive in a Supportive Community

From a traditional vantage point, the idea of a village nurturing a child aligns with the belief in collective responsibility. Family members and community members often play a role in supporting the upbringing of a child, from babysitting to providing advice or resources. For some, this sense of collectivity is a positive aspect of child-rearing, one that can alleviate the pressures faced by parents. An extended family, including grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins, forms a robust network of mutual support, marking a significant advantage in raising a child.

However, this collective approach to child-rearing also implies a level of trust and respect for others' judgments and decisions. One parent succinctly noted, ‘It takes an awareness that others are different and do things differently but that is a thing to be respected whether in a village or a huge metropolis.’

The Role of Institutions and Modern Media

Modern institutions such as daycare centers, schools, hospitals, and religious organizations contribute significantly to a child's development. These institutions often offer structured environments and resources that can complement the efforts of parents. However, the proliferation of modern media and the rise of social media influencers have fundamentally changed the landscape of child-rearing. A parent reflected, ‘The life of a parent is so much more demanding and less structured. If parenthood were a “job,” most people would be finding another one because of the demands. A parent is on-call 24/7. They have to make decisions without all of the information and they have a responsibility without clear expectations.’

Moreover, in the contemporary world, children are exposed to a myriad of role models beyond their immediate family. The media, particularly social media platforms, can heavily influence a child's values and behaviors. This exposure, while enriching in some ways, also presents challenges. A parent commented, ‘Nowadays, with both parents often working, children look up to media figures like the Kardashians or other cultural icons. These modern role models can sway a child’s perceptions and behaviors, for better or worse.’

Some argue that while media and peers are undoubtedly influential, they do not negate the primary role of parents. The parent noted, ‘I think it means just that the community influences the child’s development significantly. But in a modern world, I kinda take it another way as well and that is no matter how you raise your child, things like media and peers will always influence them. Meaning you are not the only teacher. Your child has many leading examples, and you may not know your child as well as you think for better or for worse, the community creates the child not just the parents. That’s why I hate when a kid does something stupid and everyone points fingers at the parents. Yeah, maybe it was their fault, but maybe it wasn’t. They don’t have 100% control over the raising of their child, especially today when the average family has both parents away working. Therefore, rather than looking up to mom or dad or whatever, they look up to things like the Kardashians or other crappy role models that the media worships. ’

Conclusion

The role of a village in child-rearing is complex, nuanced, and evolving. While traditional village life offered a supportive and engaging community, modern social and media dynamics have introduced new influences. The parental role remains pivotal, but it is no longer the sole determinant of a child's upbringing. The community, in all its forms, plays a significant role in shaping a child’s character and values. Understanding and navigating this intricate relationship is crucial for raising well-rounded individuals. As one parent observed, the child will ultimately find its own village, and it's important to let go of the expectation that parents have full control over their child's development.

Related Keywords: child development, village mentality, modern media influence