A disheartening reality

In Kashmir, the detrimental effects of parental conflicts on the children's academic performance is a pressing concern. Through my role as a teacher, I have come face-to-face brush with a disheartening reality—many students attribute their academic struggles to the daily disputes between their parents. The consequences of such conflicts extend across emotional, social, academic, and economic realms.

The immediate and pervasive impact of parental conflicts is the emotional toll it takes on children. Constant exposure to hostility and tension at home leads to heightened stress and anxiety, creating significant barriers to concentration on studies. The minds of students become preoccupied with concerns about the well-being of their parents and the stability of their family unit.

Parental conflicts ripple into a child's social development, manifesting as a lack of emotional security and stability. This often results in difficulties forming and maintaining healthy relationships with peers. Behavioural issues may surface, causing students to withdraw from social activities, perpetuating a cycle that reinforces poor academic performance. A supportive social environment is vital for a student's overall well-being, making the social impact of parental conflicts a critical factor.
The home is the primary environment for developing study habits and organizational skills.

Constant quarrels disrupt this environment, hindering the establishment of a conducive space for academic growth. Students struggle to concentrate on their studies, leading to a decline in performance. The lack of a supportive home environment impedes the development of essential academic skills, creating a ripple effect that extends into their educational journey.
Beyond emotional and academic repercussions, parental conflicts often bring about financial strain. Disputes over limited resources may result in inadequate access to educational materials, extracurricular activities, and even basic necessities. This financial strain adds hurdles to academic success, compounding the challenges faced by students grappling with the emotional fallout of parental conflicts.

As educators, recognizing and understanding the profound impact of parental conflicts on students is crucial. Creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment where students feel comfortable expressing their concerns is a fundamental step. Collaborating with school counsellors and parents to collectively address these challenges can contribute to the overall well-being of affected students.

To sum up, the daily parental conflicts experienced by students in Kashmir cast a long shadow on their emotional, social, and academic development. Acknowledging these challenges and taking proactive steps to address them is essential for creating a conducive learning environment. Only through collaborative efforts can we hope to mitigate the detrimental effects of parental conflicts and pave the way for a brighter academic future for these students.

Khursheed Dar is a regular contributor.