Many Parents Put Pressure on Their Children So That They Excel in Schools - IELTS Essay

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Model Essay 1

In today's competitive landscape, the increasing parental pressure on children to excel academically and in extracurricular activities is pervasive. This essay argues that while such pressures aim to prepare children for future success, they often result in negative psychological impacts and stifle personal growth. The discussion will explore both the intentions behind and the consequences of this pressure.

The rationale for parents imposing high expectations lies in a well-intentioned desire for their children to secure a prosperous future. In an era marked by rapid technological advances and fierce job competition, parents anticipate that academic and extracurricular excellence will equip their children with a distinct advantage. For instance, academic scholarships and prestigious college admissions often require exemplary grades coupled with strong extracurricular portfolios. Furthermore, activities like sports, music, and clubs are viewed as crucial for developing teamwork, leadership, and other interpersonal skills essential in today’s global economy. Additionally, such engagements are believed to enhance cognitive abilities and emotional resilience, which are valuable in any professional field.

However, the adverse effects of this pressure cannot be overlooked. Psychologically, children under constant pressure may experience increased anxiety, depression, and burnout. These issues are compounded by a lack of leisure time and opportunities for unstructured play, which are vital for healthy emotional and social development. The case of young prodigies experiencing early burnouts or withdrawing from social interactions highlights the severity of overly rigorous routines. Moreover, this relentless pressure can erode the intrinsic motivation of children, making learning feel like a chore rather than a path to personal fulfillment and curiosity. Prolonged exposure to such stress can also hinder creativity and critical thinking, ultimately stifling the very skills it aims to cultivate.

In conclusion, while parental pressure stems from a desire to equip children for competitive futures, it often leads to significant psychological strain and diminishes their intrinsic motivation. The consequences, including emotional and social development issues, highlight the detrimental effects of excessive expectations on young minds.

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Model Essay 2

In contemporary society, parents frequently exert pressure on their children to achieve academic and extracurricular excellence. This essay contends that such pressures, although rooted in a desire to ensure future success, can inadvertently lead to negative outcomes for young individuals. The discussion will first explore the motivations behind parental pressures and then examine the consequences on the children's well-being.

Parents today are often driven by an acute awareness of the challenges in the modern world, including economic uncertainties and the competitive job market. They believe that success in schooling and extracurricular activities is imperative for building a solid foundation for their children's future. Excelling in academics can lead to scholarships and better career opportunities, while achievements in sports or arts may open doors to unique paths and networks. This pressure is also amplified by societal expectations and the glorification of success stories in the media, prompting parents to set high benchmarks for their children. In doing so, they hope to provide their children with every possible advantage, pushing them toward paths they believe will lead to security and prosperity.

Despite these intentions, the ramifications of such pressure can be profoundly detrimental. When children are pushed too hard, they may suffer from stress, anxiety, and a loss of self-esteem, which are counterproductive to their overall development. Educational psychologists have noted that children under excessive pressure tend to perform sub-optimally in both academic and non-academic spheres. This constant strain can lead to psychological distress, a decrease in academic interest and creativity, and potentially even mental health issues. Furthermore, children overwhelmed by expectations might also miss out on essential childhood experiences and social interactions, which are crucial for developing critical life skills and emotional intelligence. The loss of these experiences can stifle their ability to effectively navigate complex social environments and form healthy relationships, ultimately impacting their long-term well-being and success.

In conclusion, while parental pressure originates from a desire to prepare children for future challenges, it often leads to psychological and social issues. The high expectations set by parents can result in stress, diminished self-esteem, and hindered creativity, adversely affecting children's development and well-being.

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