In today's fast-paced world, the multiple demands of work and social life have led many individuals to neglect a fundamental aspect: parenting (Garduza, 2019). This context has prompted many caregivers to rely on technological devices as the primary tools to keep children occupied. While practical, this phenomenon often fosters an attitude of indifference toward active and participatory parenting. Such behavior not only limits meaningful interactions between caregivers and children but also affects the transmission of essential values. In many cases, caregivers fail to allocate sufficient time to engage in conversations with their children, instill basic social norms, or teach them the social skills necessary for holistic development. According to Garduza (2019), this gap in parenting can negatively impact children's emotional and social development, perpetuating patterns of disconnection within the family unit.
Characteristics of Indifferent Caregivers
Indifferent caregivers often exhibit traits such as failing to set boundaries, rules, or norms, while maintaining a distant and cold attitude toward their children (Garduza, 2019; Redondo, 2019; Torres, 2022). These caregivers tend to neglect correcting negative behaviors, exert minimal control over children’s actions, and allow them to do as they please to avoid inconvenience. Additionally, as noted by Garduza (2019), Redondo (2019), and Torres (2022), they show little affection, engage in limited communication, and do not participate in recreational activities or shared interests with their children, reflecting a lack of emotional availability.
One key indicator of indifference is the belief that children are too young to understand what happens around them (Garduza, 2019). Statements like, "Leave them alone, they’re just kids," suggest that any behavior is acceptable due to their age. However, failing to instill good habits early on can lead to future complications, as children may not learn to adhere to or respond appropriately to social norms. It is also crucial to challenge the notion that explaining situations to children is unnecessary because of their age. Garduza (2019) emphasizes that, with age-appropriate language, communicating with children from a young age strengthens caregiver-child communication and establishes a habit that encourages them to seek adult support when feeling vulnerable.
Consequences of Caregiver Indifference
Love, appropriate communication, and behavioral control are fundamental pillars to ensure that children feel safe and valued within their family environment (Ocampo, 2018). According to Ocampo (2018), when caregivers show little interest in key aspects of their children’s lives—such as school grades, emotional issues, or behavior—they implicitly convey a message of disinterest and lack of importance.
These behaviors can negatively affect children's overall development, leading to low self-esteem, selfish attitudes, aggressive behaviors, and difficulties in taking on responsibilities (Gardunza, 2019; Ocampo, 2018). Moreover, children exposed to such indifference are more vulnerable to personal and social conflicts, along with limited or nonexistent social skills. This lack of attention and affection can also result in significant academic difficulties and an increased likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors. In many cases, children attempt to fill this emotional void by seeking support from peers or adults outside the family unit, which may lead to excessive emotional dependence. According to Gardunza (2019) and Ocampo (2018), caregivers’ responsibility and interest in their children are not only crucial for fostering healthy development but also for preventing adverse consequences that affect their emotional, social, and academic lives.
References
Garduza, T. (2019). Padres indiferentes en la crianza de sus hijos. Educación en Casa. Recuperado 25 de agosto de 2022, de https://educacionencasa.net/padres-indiferentes-en-la-crianza-de-sus-hijos/
Ocampo, J. (2018). El impacto de la indiferencia de los padres sobre los hijos. Guiainfantil.com. Recuperado 25 de agosto de 2022, de https://www.guiainfantil.com/familia/padres/el-impacto-de-la-indiferencia-de-los-padres-sobre-los-hijos/
Redondo, A. (2019). Estilo educativo indiferente o negligente. Pediatria Salud. Recuperado 25 de agosto de 2022, de https://www.pediatriasalud.com/estilo-educativo-indiferente-o-negligente/
Torres, I. (2022). Estilo de crianza: ¿cómo influye en el desarrollo y comportamiento de los niños? Baby Daily. Recuperado 25 de agosto de 2022, de https://babydailyenespanol.com/ser-padres/estilo-de-crianza-como-influye-en-el-desarrollo-y-comportamiento-de-los-ninos/
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