Parental attitudes towards education: What matters for children's well-being?

This study explores the potential influence of parental attitudes towards education on their children's daily life and their development in Korea. Qualitative methodologies were used; semi-structured in-depth interviews with 34 participants. The findings suggest that the desire of the parents for the educational success of their children is profound and it has a huge impact on their actual behavior towards their children. Although there was a contrast between what parents should want and the underlying preoccupying concern, all of the parents placed great importance on their children's academic achievement as a means to acquire personal advancement, higher social status, and wealth. The children's developmental needs for leisure, pleasure, and sleeping are overlooked. Their psychological and emotional well-being tends to be ignored. Focusing on the best interests of children is going too far for some in Korean society. This study concludes that behind the idea of well-being of children and fulfilling each child's potential must lie fundamental values concerning the needs, interests and welfare of children. This must be put at the heart of our policies and practices.