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Web Manga Discusses Problem of Parent–Child Relations in Japan

posted on by Jennifer Sherman

If you visit schools and other public places in Japan, you may come across posters encouraging parents to listen to their children. These posters promote parents' compassion for their children and aim to persuade them to avoid using too much harsh criticism. Parents in Japan have come under scrutiny for not showing enough sympathy and empathy for their children, and their children may find it hard to voice their true feelings.

A manga surfaced online this week that discusses this problem. The manga's story apparently begins in the middle of an argument between a mother and daughter.

Mother: So you don't have your own opinion then? If you have something you want to say, say it!
Daughter: Well, I'll say it. But if I say what I want to say, you'll just get angry without thinking about people or anything! That's—

Mother: What? Are you an elementary school student? You even become a high school student and say such a thing?
Daughter (thinking): Even though I said it because you told me to say it
Mother: Don't say things that don't make sense!

Mother: Again you do that and go silent! If you have something you want to say, then say it! Do you not have a mouth?

Daughter (thinking): Aah, I'm sick of this. If I say what I want to say, she'll probably get mad, and this conversation will be long.
Daughter: There's really nothing I want to say, so I was bad. I'm sorry.

Many online commenters said that they understood how the girl in the manga feels. One commenter said, "I understand. No matter if you say it or don't, she's someone who'll hit you with a back scratcher or shoehorn." Another person said, "If there's something you want to say, say it. (She's not saying she'll listen.)"

However, some commenters emphasized that these are always difficult issues to deal with. Children and adults have to behave according to their position. Each case is individual, and this manga provides no backstory. Another commenter brought forth the (perhaps especially Japanese) view that if people say too many of their own opinions and feelings, then they may not be paying enough attention to others.

These issues are related to the Japanese values of being deferential to one's seniors and stifling personal feelings to maintain group harmony. One net commenter noted that these practices create company employees who are afraid to speak their minds and offer new ideas. The inability to express personal feelings may also contribute to unhappiness and dissatisfaction in life. In turn, that could contribute to Japan's high suicide rate, especially among youth.

What do you think of this manga? Is it highlighting a real problem, or do children need to know their place more? Tell us in the forum.

[Via Yaraon!]


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