A recent spotlight by the HuffPost has reignited debate about parenting practices passed down from the boomer generation, highlighting that several trends once deemed normal are now considered outdated, strange, or even potentially harmful by today’s parents. As Thai society transitions swiftly with global influences, these findings raise urgent questions for families seeking to nurture healthy, happy children in a dramatically changed world.
Traditional parenting guidance, from the belief in strict physical discipline to outdated gender roles and a dismissive attitude toward mental health, has long shaped parenting in Thailand and abroad. The HuffPost article, based on expert opinions and parental feedback, lists 18 specific practices from the boomer era that today’s parents often reject. These include using corporal punishment, shaming children for expressing emotions, and insisting on unconditional obedience, practices that were once seen as keys to success but are now tied to negative outcomes in modern research (HuffPost).
Why does this matter in Thailand? The effects of outdated parenting norms are starkly visible in many families, schools, and communities. Corporal punishment, for example, remains present in some Thai households and educational institutions, despite research linking it to increased aggression, mental health issues, and impaired parent-child relationships (UNICEF Thailand). The once-common “children should be seen and not heard” maxim stifles emotional development and the ability to communicate effectively—essential skills for the 21st-century economy.
Modern Thai parents are steadily shifting away from such traditions. Increasing numbers prioritise emotional intelligence, open communication, and mutual respect between parents and children. Clinical psychologists and child development experts—many affiliated with Chiang Mai University and Chulalongkorn University—observe that “harsh discipline and emotional suppression may foster compliance in the short term, but harm emotional growth, self-esteem, and resilience in the long run” (Bangkok Post analysis). This sentiment is echoed in global research: a 2016 review in The Lancet found strong associations between physical punishment and negative behavioural or psychological outcomes in children (The Lancet).
Also under scrutiny are boomer beliefs regarding gender roles and the limited respect given to children’s autonomy. In Thailand, historical values often emphasize girls’ quietness and obedience, while boys are taught to avoid showing vulnerability. Yet, advocates and contemporary Thai educators argue for more egalitarian, flexible parenting to support genuine self-expression and equality. Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security increasingly campaigns for child rights and participation, reflecting changing social tides (MSDHS).
Such shifts are not merely theoretical. For instance, the rise in mental health challenges among Thai youth—exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic—has prompted reforms in school counselling, parenting workshops, and social media campaigns to destigmatize seeking help. “Many parents come to realise that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health,” notes a prominent family therapist associated with Siriraj Hospital. “Acknowledging children’s feelings and allowing healthy dialogue builds trust and resilience, which are crucial for today’s complex society.”
However, the generational divide remains. Many grandparents, who grew up with and replicated boomer-era methods, find themselves clashing with new parenting ideals. A renowned kindergarten educator warns, “Grandparental care is a lifeline in many Thai families, but it’s essential grandparents are updated on best practices—otherwise, unintentional harm may result.” Recent Thai media frequently depict such domestic conflicts, underscoring the tensions between tradition and innovation.
The next phase for Thailand involves bridging this gap. Some public health experts urge education campaigns targeting all generations, emphasizing the long-term benefits of nurturing discipline, emotional validation, and child agency. Plugging these trends into policy, child rights advocate groups demand revisions to national child protection laws and better teacher training to put modern science before outdated dogmas.
Looking ahead, experts warn that clinging to obsolete parenting trends could slow social progress and leave Thai children ill-prepared for the demands of the future workplace, where creativity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are essential. At the same time, embracing evidence-based, compassionate parenting may yield a new era of thriving, well-adjusted youth.
Thai parents seeking practical steps can start by joining parenting seminars, accessing reputable online resources like UNICEF Thailand, and communicating openly with teachers and medical professionals about best practices. Importantly, intergenerational dialogue supported by factual, non-judgmental discussion can help families unite for their children’s strongest possible futures.
For further reading, see the original HuffPost article, comprehensive analysis by UNICEF Thailand, and medical reviews such as The Lancet’s study on discipline outcomes.