The first paragraph
of the news
item says “An angry four-year-old Saudi boy shot and killed his
father for refusing to buy him a PlayStation, Saudi media reported on
Monday”. Would this be a record of some sort? This sad incident
might indicate the beginning of a new era of demands from children
for their favourite play things. Those who do not follow the demands
will be punished with death at the hands of the children.
What have we taught our
children? The ultimate responsibility over the children must lie
squarely with the parents, no buts about it. Parents might rave and
rant that the pressures of living in the fast paced world of today
makes raising a child such a challenge. It is true but has it not
been the same for each generation. I'm quite certain each of us were
a handful to our parents when we were growing up but their firm hand
and handling was a major factor ensuring that we became the adults
that we are today. The formative years are the most important during
the child's growing up phase and a four-year old who had no qualms
killing the father over a toy, even if it is the much coveted
PlayStation must have felt the toy is such an important part of his
life that he is justified in his action.
Or is it just another
facet of a tantrum common among children who do not get their way and
in this case ending in the death of the father. We do not know the
background of the story so in the end it is unfair to pass judgement
on the child's family. There must be have been mitigating factors
that triggered such a tragic incident and most probably the toy was
just the catalyst that marked the moment to pull the trigger.
The child will need lots
of help from psychologists and experts in young children's behaviour.
The deed has been done and it is now up to the adults to decide what
is best for the child. Do we want to see him grow up remorseful with
the knowledge that he killed his father over a toy, let him grow up
and come to terms with his actions, or treat him as an adult and let
him have his dues.
He is a four-year-old and
definitely needs help.
Image from mkis
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