Editer
30 APRIL 2025
By Shrishty Choubey
The Silent Strain: How Parental Pressure Fuels Youth Suicides and Crime in Developing Nations
In many developing countries, the family is often seen as a sanctuary—a source of support, guidance, and unconditional love. Yet, for countless young individuals, this sanctuary becomes a crucible of relentless expectations and unyielding pressure. The pursuit of parental approval, especially in academic and career achievements, has led to a disturbing rise in youth suicides and, in some cases, criminal activities.
The Weight of Expectations
In societies where academic success is equated with familial honor and future security, children are frequently burdened with the dreams and aspirations of their parents. This phenomenon is particularly evident in countries like India, where the National Crime Records Bureau reported over 13,000 student suicides in 2021 alone—a significant increase from previous years. Experts attribute this alarming trend to the immense pressure from both society and family to excel academically, often at the expense of the child’s mental well-being.
Dr. Rahul Rai Kakkar, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes that the root causes of this suicide trend lie in the mounting pressure from societal and familial expectations. The intense competition and academic concerns push students into a perpetual state of fear and anxiety, often unnoticed until it’s too late.
The Psychological Toll
Parental overprotection and authoritarian parenting styles, while often well-intentioned, can have detrimental effects on a child’s mental health. A study analyzing data from 48 low- and middle-income countries found that excessive parental monitoring is associated with increased risks of suicidal ideation and planning among youth. The study highlighted that while some parental involvement is beneficial, overprotection can lead to feelings of suffocation and a lack of autonomy, particularly among boys.
In East Asian countries, the concept of “tiger parenting”—a strict, high-expectation approach—has been linked to elevated stress levels and mental health issues among children. South Korea, for instance, has one of the highest youth suicide rates among developed nations, a statistic often attributed to intense academic pressure and rigid parenting styles.
From Despair to Delinquency
While some youths internalize the pressure, leading to depression and suicidal tendencies, others may externalize their frustration through delinquent behaviors. In environments where open communication is discouraged, and failure is stigmatized, children may resort to criminal activities as a form of rebellion or as a misguided attempt to assert control over their lives.
The phenomenon of “monster parenting,” prevalent in parts of Asia, involves excessive interference in children’s lives, leading to the development of antisocial behaviors and aggression. Such parenting styles can inadvertently push children towards criminal activities as they struggle to cope with the overwhelming expectations and lack of personal freedom.
A Call for Change
Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach:
Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Schools and communities must prioritize mental health education, providing resources and support systems for students to cope with stress and anxiety.
Parental Education: Parents should be educated on the importance of balanced parenting, emphasizing support over pressure, and understanding over control.
Policy Implementation: Governments should implement policies that reduce academic pressure, such as diversifying evaluation methods and promoting alternative career paths.
Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogues within families can help children express their fears and aspirations without the fear of judgment or disappointment.
Conclusion
The dreams parents hold for their children should inspire, not intimidate. In the quest for success, it’s imperative to remember that each child is an individual with unique strengths, aspirations, and limits. By fostering environments of understanding, support, and open communication, we can ensure that the path to achievement does not come at the cost of our children’s mental health or moral compass.
