Eventhough I agree with all the posters and their point of views! I did not see anyone mention the dramatically effects due to rapid advances in science and technology. Science and Technology effecting how family act and see things! Affecting adults as well as children.
Also, how today’s communication is mostly carried out via email, SMS or instant messengers. Not to mention how information is kept in an encrypted directory, safely stored in a password-protected USB key or a CD-RW. Also, the America's growing obsession with the media.
Where/when did we ever see people share information, find knowledge, write how they feel... comment on anything... at times aggressively and without respect... with just the hit of a key.... ENTER! Not to mention if they really cared to think for a moment there was a person on the other side of a screen. We speak/write out exactly what we want/feel..... Don't you think children, young adults are doing the same thing? This is the power of the INTERNET! It teaches us to have an outburst of attitudes we never had before...
Please see Karl Fisch’s “Shift Happens” Presentation (May, 2007). This presentation is amazing.... technology is expanding like we can't even imagine.
http://clifmims.com/blog/archives/38
These are just few of the things I believe has led to a decline in morals and values. It has caused children to have more control over anything and behave differently. Nowadays, there is no need to become invisible! For example, like A girl doesn't have to have diary hidden in her bedroom, she instead carries her PALM PILOT with her at all times.
I was raised in a very strict home, mom and dad took us to church every Sunday, we all had to sit together at the dinner table and had to ask if we could play outside! Pretty and simple. On the other hand, things have changed since then and life is not simple.... Parents have 2/3 jobs, work more to support the family… Family gatherings are a thing of the past, no time… Parents/Grandparents move away to find better quality life… People travel more, see less of each other. Also spiritual believes and ethics have changed tremendously. Life have become more complicated and complex.
So, I ask... How can we expect so much from our kids if parents/adults are not being the best role models for their/our children?