User Comments

1. 

   5/30/09

   JonnyDunMind

   I honestly believe this is a dynamic question, depends on the individual.
   As long as they have thier facts straight, and arent being foolish, then hopefully they can choose for themselves. Something that gives them satisfaction, and hopefully gives their life meaning.

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2. 

   5/30/09

   SweetViolet

   Whether or not I had the right, I would not presume to choose my child's adult profession. The role of self-determination in long-term personal satisfaction is too great for me to impose upon my child a profession that might bring me pride ("My son, the doctor!") but does not bring my child personal satisfaction. My hope would be that s/he finds something to do in life that brings personal fulfillment, whether that is being a researcher seeking to cure orphan diseases or repairing cars.
   
   That one has a right does not necessarily mean that one should exercise it.

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3. 

   5/30/09

   dayflyer

   I spent many years working with young people choosing their future career path and I agree with the commenters above: it should and must be the individual's choice. I've seen people without the academic ability being pushed onto courses they are unlikely to pass and people having to face unhappiness every day because they're doing what a parent, or someone else, persuaded them to.
   
   You aren't going to do the studying, turn up each day etc. so why should you make the choice for someone else? And what if it doesn't turn out - you're the one who will get the blame.
   
   Help your children to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to make their own decisions in life. It's THEIR life after all, not yours!

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