A cultural norm is created through borrowing the powers of authority (usually religion and group consensus) and becomes dangerous when used as a reference with a lack of critical thinking.
1) Unhealthy ways of asserting dominance and control onto Children.
Using shaming, comparison, and excessive punishment when a child is either “too quiet” or “hyperactive,” when the child has interests and aspirations that differ from those his caregivers want, and using these tendencies to overlook, neglect, or disregard any way the child tries to express discomfort or pain.
2) Unrealistic Expectations During Puberty.
Expecting individuals to remain unchanged and “obey” when facing any attempt to “act out” through artistic pursuits, new friendship groups, or any behavior deemed “rebellious.”
3) Adulthood Milestone Culture.
The race to achieve and the pressure of milestone culture manifest as constant questioning about one’s life achievements, particularly targeting women to find a mate and start a family with the impending threat of the “ticking” biological clock.
What makes these mindsets problematic is that their sources are supposed to have one’s “best interests” at heart such as parents, relatives and friends, but the outcome carries more harm than good.
Calling out such practices can paint you as a villain, especially when dealing with older generations that normalized these behaviors in the first place.
As more enlightened generations come forth, who are more aware of the harmful impacts of these practices and are able to identify them as they take place, what steps can we take to cultivate healthier forms of support and understanding?
