5 Issues Discussed by Filipino Families in 2022
We look back at 5 of the most pressing issues parents and kids discussed in 2022.
The year 2022 saw many pressing issues that affected the world including Filipino families. From the Philippine elections to the return to face-to-face classes, it was no shortage of discussions at the dinner table. We round up five of the issues that have been the talk among Filipino families and the parenting community.
5 Issues Discussed by Filipino Families in 2022
1. The return of face-to-face classes
After two years of doing online schooling, students returned to face-to-face classes. This drew a lot of mixed reactions from parents, given that some of them still had apprehensions about the vaccination for kids 7 years old and above. But nonetheless, kids are happy to be back in school to be with their friends and slowly navigate once again in interacting with one another.
2. Safety measures in schools
Security has always been tight in schools in the Philippines but in the US it’s a different story. They were once again rocked by the shooting of students and teachers in Uvalde, Texas, putting the spotlight once again on the safety of children and gun control. Actor Matthew McConaughey, a native of Uvalde urged both parties – Republicans, and Democrats to put children’s safety and gun control in the forefront of the discussion, saying it’s time to work it out.
3. Helicopter parenting
There is nothing wrong with being protective of your kids. But it’s a different story when you tend to hold them back from flying their wings. Helicopter parenting may be something you yourself as a parent have been doing so it may be time you and your partner sit down and reflect if you’re doing it to your own kids.
4. Utang na Loob and the toxicity behind it
Admit it or not, this practice of utang na loob or gratitude is something that’s ingrained among Filipinos. But over the years, this has become abusive for many — including kids. It even leads to fights simply because the child went against the parent’s wishes, leading them to say how ungrateful their child is. It leads to gaslighting and shame, too.
Parents, time to check if you tend to weaponize this. After all, kids have their own minds and decisions to make as well.
5. Breaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma and Toxic Patterns
Growing up, every child goes through their own traumas and once they become parents, they might inflict these traumas on their own children. This is why many psychologists and family experts have been pushing for parents or kids to go through counseling, therapy, or heal their inner child. It may take some time though but what matters is that parents don’t bring the pain to their kids.
Check out more stories that have been the talk of families:
Here’s Why Commute Can Drive Families Crazy
Why The Traditional Filipino Way of Punishing Kids Won’t Work
