In order to see this content you need to have both Javascript enabled and Flash installed. Visit BBC Webwise for full instructions
How do we teach children values in today's consumerist world?
Passing on a sense of values and setting boundaries is an important part of raising children. Most children learn their moral codes from adults, especially their family, teachers and friends. But in today's celebrity culture are children looking to other role models? And how do we pass on basic values in an increasingly materialistic, consumerist society? These were some of the questions which were raised during a special childhood season on BBC Wales in March 2009.
Last updated: 31 March 2009
To find out more, BBC Wales asked the Institute of Welsh Affairs (IWA) to carry out focus group research in three different parts of Wales. The focus groups included children, parents and grandparents who talked about a range of issues, including values and behaviour. Many of the adults who took part felt children today tended to show less respect compared with their day. "In my times, the teachers were respected and treated as something different," said one female grandparent.
Parents and grandparents also felt children today were more materialistic and under pressure to become adults too quickly. "I think the children are growing up too fast," said one mother. "I think they are trying to keep ahead of what's going on. If somebody's got one thing, somebody else wants it. I think they want to be as grown up as everybody else, whereas when I was little it was like 'don't be growing up too quickly' now."
You can read the full IWA report in our news section and view some of the comments which were sent in by readers at the time.
Values and discipline
Facts and figures
- The average 10-year-old can name 400 brands and is increasingly likely to use them to measure self worth. The Consumer Council: Shopping Generation, Ed Mayo, July 2005.
- 66% of 1,178 adults questioned by Gfk NOP thought moral values weren't as strong as when they were children. Good Childhood Inquiry: Children's Society, 2009.
