Model Answer 1: [Agreement]

According to some, in today's fast-paced and competitive world, children are experiencing more societal pressure compared to previous generations. I tend to agree with the opinion that today's children are living under greater societal pressure. By analyzing the increased academic expectations and the influence of social media, it becomes evident that the pressures faced by children today are indeed more pronounced.

One compelling reason why I believe that children face greater societal pressure today is the heightened academic expectations. In the past, academic success was important, but it was not as intensely emphasized as it is now. With the increasing emphasis on standardized testing, college admissions, and academic achievements, children today are constantly under pressure to excel academically. For instance, the competition for university placements has intensified, leading to a heightened focus on academic performance from an early age.

Another significant factor, in my opinion, contributing to increased societal pressure on children is the pervasive influence of social media. Unlike in the past, children today are exposed to a virtual world that puts them under constant scrutiny and comparison. Social media platforms highlight carefully curated images of success, beauty, and popularity, creating unrealistic standards that children feel compelled to meet. The pressure to conform, gain approval, and maintain an ideal online image can lead to anxiety, self-esteem issues, and a sense of inadequacy. For example, the fear of missing out and the need to constantly present a desirable online persona can significantly impact a child's mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, the notion that today's children face more societal pressure than children in the past holds true. The increased academic expectations and the influence of social media contribute to a heightened sense of pressure and scrutiny. Parents, educators, and society as a whole need to recognize and address these pressures to ensure the well-being and healthy development of children.

Sample Answer 2: [Agreement]

In the 21st century, people enjoy a more comfortable life with better facilities, increased life expectancy and more possibilities than ever before. Despite these advancements and achievements, many people feel that modern children are living under immense pressure from society, and I quite agree with this viewpoint.

First of all, the competition that children face in school and at home is far more than in the past centuries. As society appreciates only the best performers and parents want their children to excel in every field, childhood today is far different than our forefathers. Competition and pressure are everywhere for children. Renowned and good schools have a limited number of seats, and the competition for those seats is overwhelming. Parents want their children to excel in music, sports, arts, science and in other fields. So they are often forced to get involved in activities that they have little interest in. Thus children in the present era live under constant pressure, fear and competition.

On top of that, overpopulation and scarcity of land have forced city dwellers to move to an apartment rather than a traditional home. These apartments force children to have limited activities at home which include watching television and using the internet. In addition, these apartments have some regulations such as not making noise or playing, and that is why children cannot enjoy their life freely feeling a kind of pressure that often make their life measurable.

Finally, the loose family bonding and parents’ priority for their careers often creates an invisible pressure on the children that has many negative psychological effects. Parents’ actions affect their offspring severely, and any social and family degradation will create extra stress on children.

To conclude, today’s children have more toys, electronic gadgets, and opportunity to learn and express their views, but that does not make their childhood more enjoyable as they feel more anxiety and pressure from everywhere. The type of pressure they face is quite overwhelming and that has many adverse effects on their growth as well.

[Written by – Haisuhu]