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A Dramatic Shift in American Society
What's taking place in Western societies that has brought us so many serious problems? The difficulties our children face are a consequence of choices made by their parents and grandparents of the last two generations. Our choices have lasting effects, whether we are discussing individuals, families or societies. As God told Moses about the decisions of the ancient nation of Israel, if the Israelites chose amiss, their children would suffer "to the third and fourth generations" (Exodus 20:5).
About 50 years ago many American families made a choice with lasting and unforeseen consequences. They moved away from the longtime model of a family structure involving sacrifice by parents for the care of children. Parents chose to pursue economic and personal success, placing their happiness before that of their children.
Before World War II the American father was principally concerned with marriage and rearing children. His job was a means to the end of supporting his family- and child-centered goals.
But, in the aftermath of the Great Depression and Second World War, materialism, sports and social life with other adult male friends outside the family became a man's principal measure of manhood, personal identity and success. Many men became only secondarily concerned with the details of their children's lives. The day-to-day details of their children's needs were delegated to their wives.
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