Dr Vikas Sharma
In many schools and playgrounds today, one cannot miss a troubling change in the way children communicate. What was once a simple greeting of “hello” or “namaste” is increasingly being replaced by abusive words, spoken casually and often followed by laughter. Profanity, once considered unacceptable, is now used as a common expression, worn by many children as a symbol of confidence and belonging.
A major factor behind this shift is the influence of social media. Short videos, reels, and online skits often present vulgar language as humorous or fashionable. Children who spend long hours watching such content begin to copy not only the words but also the attitude attached to them. What is presented as entertainment online slowly becomes part of everyday speech, with little thought given to meaning or impact.
Peer pressure adds to the problem. In many groups, children who avoid such language are labelled as timid or “uncool,” while those who use abusive words are seen as bold. At home, too, the environment matters. Where slang is heard frequently or dismissed as harmless, children adopt it more easily. In some cases, parents even encourage it by laughing when a young child repeats such words, without realizing the long-term consequences.
The impact is significant. Over time, children who rely on abusive language lose the ability to express emotions in a healthy way. Instead of saying “I am upset” or “I am frustrated,” they choose quick words that may sound powerful but reduce the quality of communication. What begins as a joke among friends can quickly turn into disrespect, bullying, or aggression. Public spaces also reflect this change, as abusive language becomes a common background in buses, markets, and streets, lowering the standard of social interaction.
Addressing the issue requires combined efforts. Schools can help by teaching respectful communication, encouraging discipline, and providing guidance on responsible media use. Parents need to be attentive to their children’s language habits, limit exposure to vulgar content, and set an example through their own speech. Social media platforms and content creators also bear responsibility for discouraging the promotion of abusive language as entertainment.
Language is more than words; it is a mirror of values and respect. If children learn their speech from content filled with profanity, society risks becoming less considerate and more insensitive. The goal is not only to stop the use of foul words but also to provide children with richer and healthier ways to express themselves. A simple, polite greeting still carries more dignity and warmth than any abusive word ever can.
The words chosen today will shape the tone of tomorrow’s society. They should be words that build understanding and respect, not ones that weaken them.
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