More often than not, the heart takes over the mind when parents view their children's misdeeds (“Teachers in the dock,” Open Page, April 24). When children throw tantrums at home, parents give in. Therefore, when a teacher points out their mistakes and censures them, parents fail to acknowledge that it could be their children's fault. They thus make the children believe that the latter can do no wrong. This may have serious implications in later life.
The refusal to accept one's mistake is often the root cause of many behavioural and societal problems, including failed marriages and general friction in society. When a student's misdemeanour is condoned in the classroom, other students are encouraged to follow suit. Parents need to consider these factors before describing a teacher as harsh and rude.
V. Aravinda Ramanujam,
Chennai
