Saudi Gazette report

MORAL standards are declining among some groups of society, especially youth. Seeing youth wearing weird clothes and acting obnoxiously on streets has become a frequent scene. Al-Riyadh daily asked a number of sociology experts about these negative practices and the proper solution to curtail them and how to re-instill good values in the minds of youth, values that are in line with the social traditions and most importantly the Shariah.

Dr. Sulaiman Al-Aqeel, sociology professor at King Saud University, underscored the importance of the role of parents in instilling positive and good social values in their children’s mind. Only parents have control over their children and can shape a child’s personality in a positive way.

“We need to strengthen the role of social organizations because they can help protect and defend our social values and educate our sons and daughters about these values. We have rich social heritage but we do not have enough social organizations to protect it. Having such organizations will help reduce the rate of crimes, thefts, and other negative practices,” he said.

Social values

Muhammad Al-Zenaidi, sociology expert, said it is social values that shape and control an individual’s behavior. It is the compass which points to the right direction; the road map to the right path. Unfortunately, some young men and women go astray easily and get negatively influenced. Parents should be the role model for their children; a child should acquire good ethics and positive social values from his parents.

“It is necessary that parents talk a lot with their children and discuss different matters and ensure that their child is surrounded by their love and support. Schools can enhance a child’s moral principles from the moment he enrolls in the school. This way we will ensure that children will grow up to be good and God-fearing citizens who spare no effort to build their country and protect their social values,” he said. Audio-visual and print media can play an effective role in educating the members of the public about proper social values and promoting positive behavior patterns.

Shadi Makki, psychologist, said values are like the driving engine of an individual’s behavior; in other words, it is values that shape one’s personality. If these values are instilled properly in children’s mind and in line with the Shariah, they can help children develop strong personality.

“I believe it is important that parents themselves be aware of their role in raising children who know right from wrong and who do not disrespect social values. We need to focus on parents and provide them with awareness-raising programs that equip them with tools which they can use to ensure that their children develop strong personality,” he explained.

He called upon parents to build close relationships with their children and gain their trust, pointing out that children whose social and psychological needs are satisfied by parents tend to develop socially-strong personality that respect social traditions and values.