In today's rapidly changing world, parents face challenges that previous generations could hardly imagine. Smartphones, online gaming, social media, and constant internet access have transformed the way children spend their time. While privacy is important for every growing child, an important question arises: Should children be allowed to spend long periods alone in locked rooms without parental supervision or communication?

As a student at Government Medical College Srinagar, I have had the opportunity to observe different aspects of society and human behavior. During a recent posting at Government Psychiatry Hospital, Rainawari, I witnessed several young individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, emotional difficulties, and relationship-related problems. Every case is different, and mental health issues can arise from many factors. However, one common concern often seen today is increasing social isolation and reduced communication within families.
Many children and teenagers now spend hours inside locked rooms, immersed in mobile phones, video games, social media, or online interactions. While some may be studying or pursuing productive activities, excessive isolation can gradually weaken family bonds. Parents may be living under the same roof as their children, yet meaningful conversations become rare.
I personally witnessed a scene while traveling from JVC Bemina to Hyderpora. A mother was trying to speak to her son, but he was completely absorbed in a mobile game. Instead of listening patiently, he became irritated and asked not to be disturbed. Such incidents may appear ordinary today, but they raise an important question: Have we become so dependent on screens that we no longer value the people sitting beside us?
Parents invest years of sacrifice, care, and hard work in raising their children. Respect, communication, and gratitude toward parents should remain fundamental values regardless of technological advancements. A child who cannot spare a few minutes to listen to a parent may be missing one of life's most important relationships.
At the same time, parents also have responsibilities. Effective parenting is not about excessive control, nor is it about complete freedom without guidance. Children need trust, but they also need boundaries. Parents should know where their children spend their time, who their friends are, and how they are coping emotionally. Open communication can help identify problems before they become serious.
The purpose is not to eliminate privacy. Every child deserves personal space. However, privacy should not become isolation. A locked door should not separate children from family relationships, responsibilities, and healthy social interaction. Families should encourage shared meals, regular conversations, outdoor activities, and participation in household life.
Modern society is witnessing increasing concerns related to loneliness, excessive screen time, unhealthy online influences, and emotional distress among young people. These challenges cannot be solved by punishment alone. They require stronger family connections, active parental involvement, and responsible behavior from children themselves.
The solution lies in balance. Children should be encouraged to pursue education, hobbies, and personal interests, but they should also spend quality time with their parents and family members. Parents should guide with wisdom, monitor with care, and maintain open communication rather than indifference.
A healthy family environment is built when both sides fulfill their responsibilities. Children should respect and listen to their parents, while parents should remain actively involved in their children's lives. Right actions should be encouraged, and harmful behaviors should be corrected with patience and understanding.

The future of our society depends not only on academic success or technological progress but also on strong families, responsible parenting, and children who remain connected to the values that shaped them.

Email:-------------------- sajidqurashie557@gmail.com