Ysh Estayo

Author | Columnist

Who is the Better Mother?

Manila, Philippines | Author: Ysh Estayo | Posted on May 12, 2024 |  www.editorialph.com

Celebrating Mother's Day isn't just about honoring the timeless role of motherhood—it's also a chance to ponder how parenting has changed across different generations in our society. Are there noticeable differences? Are mothers of yesteryears better than today's moms, or are modern mothers superior due to their access to information and technology?

As we enjoy this beautiful moment with our mothers, it's an ideal time to compare the methods and effectiveness of traditional mothers with those of modern-day parents.

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In the era of our grandparents and parents, traditional mothers were seen as strong pillars of support and love within the home. They were deeply rooted in cultural traditions and family values, and their parenting style emphasized discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to their children's well-being. For these mothers, success wasn't measured by material wealth or academic achievements but by the values they instilled and the character they molded in their children. Through their dedication, they imparted lessons of resilience, integrity, and empathy—qualities that laid the groundwork for success in life.

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Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves in a world where parenting dynamics have drastically changed. Modern parents, armed with information and technological advancements, navigate a landscape characterized by rapid globalization, digital connectivity, and evolving societal norms.

Parenting effectiveness is now often judged by metrics like academic achievements, extracurricular accomplishments, and social status. The rise of social media and peer pressure has led to heightened scrutiny and expectations, creating a culture of comparison and competition among parents. While modern parents have access to resources and opportunities that were unimaginable in the past, they also face unique challenges—balancing work and family life, navigating the pitfalls of technology and social media, and reconciling traditional values with modern sensibilities. In this complex environment, effective parenting becomes a multifaceted equation influenced by factors like socioeconomic status, cultural background, and individual parenting philosophies. But amidst these changes, one question lingers: Are modern-day parents better equipped to handle the complexities of the modern world, or do they fall short in certain areas compared to their traditional counterparts?

On one hand, modern parents have access to a wealth of information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their children's upbringing. They can provide a more enriched and stimulating environment, with greater flexibility in childcare, education, and career choices. However, modern parenting also brings its own set of challenges—increased stress, pressure, and anxiety from societal expectations and the pursuit of perfection. The pervasive influence of technology and social media blurs the lines between the virtual and real worlds, raising concerns about screen time, cyberbullying, and online safety.

In contrast, traditional mothers relied on intuition and community support to raise their children. Despite lacking access to modern resources, they possessed wisdom, resilience, and resourcefulness that served them well in adversity.

Ultimately, effective parenting isn't solely determined by external factors or societal standards but by the love, dedication, and commitment parents bring to their roles every day. Whether traditional or modern, mothers and fathers alike shape the future of their children and society as a whole

As we celebrate Mother's Day, let's honor the mothers who came before us and acknowledge the diversity and complexity of parenting in the modern age. Let's work towards a world where all parents feel supported, empowered, and valued in raising the next generation.

To all mothers and parents, past, present, and future—Happy Mother's Day!