The family is a key social institution that plays a critical part in the development of a person’s personality. The importance of family in the socialisation and creation of value systems cannot be overstated. Family strengthens a nation’s social and moral framework by making a person responsible and moral.
The major role of the family is to meet basic requirements such as food, shelter, education, health, and emotional support. However, a family’s role is not confined to these responsibilities; it is also the primary school of citizenship.
Patriotism, Integrity, Honesty, Tolerance, Fraternity, and compassion for the weakest elements of society are all core principles of a good citizen. Part IV A of our constitution also contains Fundamental Citizenship Duties such as respecting our national symbols and heroes, respecting women, having a Scientific Temperament, safeguarding our environment and national treasures, and so on. The family is the first social institution that instils certain values in a person.
These functions are carried out by the family using a variety of approaches including as role- playing, the reward and punishment system, and so on. A child tries to imitate his family members’ actions. If her father follows the laws of the road, she will try to emulate him. After witnessing her family’s honesty and bravery, a youngster can develop courage as a value. Family members’ long-term relationships and existing value systems affect a child’s values, and the child’s attitude toward society and nation is established as a result.
Grandparents and elders teach their children important moral principles such as honesty and compassion through storytelling. A family might, however, instil values that have detrimental consequences. A child who grows up in a coercive and corrupt atmosphere may underestimate the value of honesty and lack self-confidence.
Our value systems are being challenged by a number of causes, which may be seen in the prevalence of criminal and corruption activities, as well as in people’s general behaviour in society. Some of this could be due to the family system’s deterioration.
Thus, by improving the family structure, we may revitalise our country’s moral fibre, resulting in the production of moral and responsible citizens. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam recognises parents as the first teachers in their children’s education, which serves as the cornerstone of a great nation.
“If a society is to be free of corruption and become a nation of beautiful brains, I strongly believe that three major societal members can make a difference: The Father, The Mother, and The Teacher,” he says.