Do rude children come from rude parents?

Photo: Complaint Singapore A recent incident at Ichiban Boshi has sparked a discussion about parenting and its implications in shaping the behaviour of the next generation. A netizen shared an encounter with a rude mother who defended her son's misbehaviour rather than encouraging him to apologise.

Screenshot: Complaint Singapore

The netizen's reflection on the incident raises important questions about the values and behaviours we want to impart to our children. Instead of addressing the child's misbehaviour and using it as a teachable moment, the incident normalises and accepts such conduct.

Observers quickly pointed out that the mother's behaviour may reflect her upbringing:

They aren’t wrong. Research from 2015 supports this notion, indicating that rudeness is often a learned behaviour.

People exposed to rude behaviour are more likely to behave rudely toward others, and to evoke hostility, negative affect, and even revenge from others.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the impact of the mother's rude behaviour on her child's upbringing. It is widely believed that children absorb behaviours and attitudes from their parents, which can shape their future conduct.

This incident serves as a reminder for parents and society as a whole to reflect on the importance of modelling positive behaviour and values for the well-being of future generations.