What Makes A Child An "Angel" In Public And "Hell" At Home?

 

The dichotomy of a child's behaviour in public versus at home (private) is a phenomenon that has puzzled many parents and caregivers in the time past and also presently.  While children may appear angelic and well-behaved in public, they can transform into angels of darkness at their homes by exhibiting behaviours that are often described as "hellish." This disparity in behaviour can be attributed to various factors, including the child's environment, emotional state, and relationships with parents, caregivers, and peers.

One possible explanation for this dichotomy is the child's inability to regulate his/ her emotions and behaviours in different settings. In public, children feel more inclined to be another person due to the presence of strangers and the desire to make a good impression. They may also be more likely to follow rules and listen to their parents' instructions in order to avoid embarrassment or disapproval. In contrast, at their homes, children may feel comfortable expressing their true emotions and behaviours, knowing that they are in a safe and familiar environment where their wrong conducts may not be noticed and censored. I even believe that adults can behave this way too occasionally. The way most people behave in public is not exactly the way they behave at their homes.  

Another factor that contributes to this disparity is the level of stress and anxiety that children experience in different settings. In public, children may feel anxious about being judged, castigated, and evaluated by others, leading to being called bad and derogatory names. As a result of this, they try as much as possible to behave in a more controlled and proper manners. At their homes, children feel more relaxed and comfortable, thereby leading to a more unruly behaviour. This contrast highlights the complex interplay between environment, emotions, and behaviours in shaping a child's actions.

Cultural norms and expectations also play a significant role in shaping a child's behaviour in public versus at home. In some cultures, children are expected to be well-behaved and respectful in public, while in others, more leniency is given to children's behaviours, particularly in public. For example, in Asian cultures, children are taught from youthful age to respect their elders and behave in a disciplined manner in public. In contrast, in some Western cultures, children are encouraged to express themselves freely and assert their individuality. These cultural differences can influence how parents and caregivers respond to their children's behaviour and shape their expectations for what constitutes "good" behaviour. 

Furthermore, the way parents and caregivers manage their children's behaviours in public versus at home can also contribute to this dichotomy. In public, parents and caregivers may be more likely to use positive reinforcement and gentle discipline to manage their children's behaviours , while at homes, they may be more relaxed and less concerned about maintaining a perfect image. This difference in approach can lead to a disparity in the child's behaviour, with them being more likely to behave in public and more to misbehave at their homes.

In conclusion, the dichotomy of a child's behaviour in public versus at home is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by a range of factors, including environment, emotions, cultural norms, and parenting styles. By understanding these factors, parents and caregivers can better navigate the challenges of managing children's behaviour in different settings and work towards creating a more consistent and supportive environment for their children to thrive. Ultimately, it is essential to recognize that children's behaviour is shaped by a multitude of factors, and that a nuanced approach is necessary to support their development and well-being.

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