Relationships today appear more fragile than ever. From frequent misunderstandings to emotional distance and quick breakups, many young adults struggle to build and sustain healthy connections. Social media, modern dating culture, and changing values are often blamed for this trend. However, one critical factor is rarely discussed: parental silence about dating and relationships.
In many homes, conversations about relationships are avoided entirely, often based on the assumption that children are too young to date. While it is true that children do not need to date in the early stages of their lives, treating the topic as forbidden removes guidance rather than curiosity. Children will always ask questions, and when those questions go unanswered, they are often answered by peers, social media, or movies. Open, age-appropriate discussions ensure that young people receive guidance without encouraging early dating.
Relationship problems do not suddenly appear in adulthood. Emotional habits, communication styles, and expectations are shaped early in life. Children observe how emotions are handled, how conflict is resolved, and how affection or disagreement is expressed within their families. When there is no open discussion about relationships, young people grow up without a framework for understanding emotional connection, compromise, or responsibility.
Social media and popular culture also play a powerful role in shaping perceptions of relationships. Online content often promotes unrealistic standards and transactional views of love, where relationships are valued more for benefits than genuine emotional connection. Without parental guidance to provide balance and context, many young adults adopt unhealthy ideas about what relationships should look like. This often leads to unrealistic expectations, poor communication, and a low tolerance for conflict, all of which are common causes of relationship breakdowns.
It is important to clarify that educating children about relationships does not mean encouraging early dating or undermining family values. Education is not permission; it is preparation. Healthy relationship education involves teaching respect, boundaries, empathy, communication, and responsibility. It means acknowledging that emotions are normal, attraction exists, and meaningful relationships require effort, honesty, and self-control.
By choosing conversation over avoidance, parents can help raise emotionally intelligent adults capable of communication, compromise, and healthy connection. In a time when relationships are increasingly fragile and transactional thinking is common, breaking the silence may be one of the most powerful steps toward building stronger foundations for the future.
Written by Al-Ameen Oladeji – Jamisi News
