To my always dear friends from the HiveLearners community, my best regards!

Many times, I have witnessed children’s actions that embarrassed their parents. Most of them were out of stubbornness, probably because they didn't get what they asked for, or due to some correction they received for inappropriate behavior. This happens often, even in inappropriate environments such as flights, which can even be dangerous.

As they grow older, young people's behavior can change, and we know that many people become good individuals. However, for some, it seems that growth did not bring wisdom.

Rebellious Youth

It is classic for young people to rebel against their parents, as if it were necessary to reject everything that comes from the previous generation as a sign of evolution. We know this is premature, and at some point in life, we realize that we were wrong to act this way, but by then, the damage may already be done! This rebellion may have been the trigger that will generate other consequences, some of which are very serious and irreversible!

I say this because the entry into the world of drugs is always a looming fear for any responsible parent. Keeping children away from this danger can be complicated when young people are in a rebellious phase. Even worse is the world of crime, which involves the consumption of drugs and the resale of illicit materials. This causes damage not only to the family but also to society.

The question that remains unanswered is: Is this the parents' fault?

The answer is not simple and requires further investigation. To begin with, we need to determine when a young person ceases to be a person in formation and becomes responsible for their actions. This involves taking a stance on human development issues, which vary for each individual, making a legal definition practically impossible to enforce!

Furthermore, setting a civil age limit for people to be held accountable is problematic because it also fails to reach consensus within society itself. Take the case of Brazil, for example. A 17-year-old who gets involved in drug trafficking will be treated as a child and sent to a rehabilitation center. However, if they are 18, they will go to a regular prison. The difference is striking, even for the same act.

Does this mean that parents are responsible for the criminal decision of the 17-year-old, but stop being responsible overnight when they turn 18? This argument is flawed and does nothing to change the fact that the crime was committed, regardless of guilt.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
It is the youth’s responsibility to turn these dreams into reality."
Eleanor Roosevelt

For this reason, I believe that everyone should be held accountable for their actions, and parents should be absolved of the crimes committed by their children. In this sense, the anticipation of civil emancipation seems to be the most appropriate path.

What do you think?