Md. Bazlur Rashid

Parenting practices in Bangladesh have evolved significantly over the last few decades due to the influence of socio-economic changes, globalisation, and technological advancements. Traditionally, parenting in Bangladesh was characterised by a hierarchical structure, where parents were seen as authoritative figures, and children were expected to show unquestioning obedience. However, with the country's rapid modernisation, urbanisation, and shifts in societal norms, parenting styles have undergone notable changes, reflecting the complexities of a more globalised and interconnected society.

One of the most significant shifts in parenting practices in Bangladesh is the transition from authoritative to more democratic or permissive styles. Historically, Bangladeshi families often followed a strict, top-down approach where parents made all decisions regarding their children's lives, from education to career choices, without much input from the children. This approach, while maintaining discipline, often led to a lack of independence and decision-making skills in children. However, in recent years, this rigid structure has softened. Many parents, particularly in urban areas, adopt a more inclusive approach, allowing children to participate in decision-making and encouraging open communication. This shift, influenced by Western ideals of parenting, emphasizes mutual respect and understanding between parents and children, fostering independence and critical thinking in children.

The role of education in parenting has also seen a transformation. In previous generations, education was primarily seen as a means to secure stable employment, and parents often emphasized academic excellence above all else. The pressure to excel in school was immense, with parents sometimes resorting to strict measures to ensure their children's academic success. However, there is now a growing recognition of the importance of holistic development. Parents increasingly focus on extra-curricular activities, creativity, and personal growth rather than solely on academic achievement. This shift, driven by the realization that the modern workforce values diverse skills beyond traditional academic qualifications, is a significant change in parental priorities.

Technology has played a significant role in reshaping parenting practices in Bangladesh. With the widespread use of smartphones, the internet, and social media, parents and children have access to vast amounts of information. Parents today are more aware of global parenting trends, child psychology, and educational methods, which influence their approaches. Additionally, the rise of digital platforms has introduced new challenges in parenting, such as managing children's screen time, ensuring internet safety, and dealing with the potential negative impacts of social media. Many parents adopt more vigilant and tech-savvy approaches to supervise and guide their children's online activities.

Globalisation and migration have also contributed to changes in parenting styles. Many Bangladeshi families now have relatives living abroad, and the exposure to different cultures and parenting practices has impacted how parents raise their children. Families with members working overseas often bring back new ideas about education, child-rearing, and social values. Additionally, the increasing number of families migrating to urban centres for better job opportunities has led to a shift in family dynamics, where both parents are more likely to be employed, leading to changes in childcare practices and a greater reliance on daycare services or extended family members.

In rural Bangladesh, where traditional values and customs still hold firm, changes in parenting practices are slower but evident. The influence of modern communication technologies, improved access to education, and exposure to new ideas through television and the internet have gradually introduced alternative parenting methods. Although rural families still tend to follow more traditional, authoritative styles, there is growing awareness about child rights, education, and the need for positive parenting practices that encourage a child's mental and emotional well-being.

Parental involvement in children’s lives has also transformed. In the past, fathers were often seen as the primary breadwinners, with limited direct participation in their children's day-to-day activities. Mothers were typically responsible for the upbringing of children and the management of the household. This clear division of responsibilities is gradually changing, particularly in urban settings, where more women participate in the workforce. This shift has led to more shared parenting responsibilities, with fathers becoming more involved in the upbringing and education of their children. The concept of co-parenting, where both parents share equal responsibility for their children’s upbringing, is becoming more accepted. However, it is still relatively new in the context of Bangladeshi society.

The pressure on parents has also changed with rising economic aspirations. In a fast-growing economy like Bangladesh, middle-class families increasingly strive for better educational and economic opportunities for their children. This drive has led to a competitive environment where parents feel compelled to provide the best education, extra-curricular activities, and technological tools for their children's success. However, this can lead to heightened stress for parents and children, as the academic and career success expectations can be overwhelming.

Gender roles in parenting are also evolving. There were clear distinctions between the roles of mothers and fathers in raising children in the past, but these roles are increasingly becoming fluid. More fathers are taking on caregiving responsibilities traditionally associated with mothers, such as cooking, helping with homework, or attending parent-teacher meetings. Similarly, mothers are becoming more active in making financial and career-related decisions for the family. This shift towards more egalitarian parenting practices reflects broader changes in gender roles within Bangladeshi society, where the push for gender equality influences family structures.

Moreover, mental health awareness is another area where parenting practices are changing. In the past, issues related to mental health were often ignored or stigmatised. Children showing signs of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns were not always given proper attention, and such issues were usually attributed to bad behaviour or lack of discipline. However, there is now a growing awareness about the importance of mental health in child development. Parents are becoming more conscious of the emotional well-being of their children and are seeking help from counsellors or psychologists when needed. This shift is essential in fostering a more supportive and nurturing environment for children.

The economic status of families significantly influences parenting practices in Bangladesh. In lower-income families, parenting is often shaped by the challenges of financial hardship. Parents in these families may have limited time and resources to invest in their children’s education and development. However, many of these parents still place a high value on education as a means of upward mobility and make sacrifices to provide their children with the best possible opportunities. In contrast, wealthier families may have the resources to invest in private education, extracurricular activities, and technology. Still, they may face different challenges, such as managing their children's exposure to materialism and consumerism.

Religious and cultural values also influence parenting practices in Bangladesh. Islam, being the predominant religion in the country, plays a significant role in shaping how parents raise their children. Many parents emphasise religious education, moral values, and respect for elders as part of their parenting practices. However, even in this regard, there has been a shift towards a more balanced approach, where parents encourage religious observance while also promoting critical thinking, tolerance, and openness to different perspectives.

Parenting practices in Bangladesh are undergoing significant changes, reflecting the country's broader social, economic, and cultural transformations. While traditional values still hold sway in many families, especially in rural areas, there is a clear trend towards more inclusive, democratic, and child-centred approaches in urban and middle-class families. Globalisation, technology, education, and gender equality all shape how parents raise their children. This changing pattern of parenting is likely to continue as Bangladesh becomes more integrated into the global community and as societal norms evolve.

The writer is an Associate professor and head of the Sociology department at Tejgaon College, Dhaka.