【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. mid-life / ˈmɪdˌlaɪf / (n.) – the middle age, or the period of life from around 40 to 60 years old
Example: People tend to have stable careers at mid-life.
2. affluent / ˈæf lu ənt / (adj.) – characterized by having a high income
Example: Most residents of the village are affluent families.
3. socioeconomic / ˌsoʊ si oʊˌɛk əˈnɒm ɪk / (adj.) – combining social and economic factors
Example: Income is an indicator of one’s socioeconomic status.
4. adverse / ædˈvɜrs / (adj.) – bad or harmful
Example: Verbal abuse has several adverse effects on children.
5. parenting / ˈpɛər ən tɪŋ / (n.) – the act of raising a child
Example: Good parenting involves discipline and patience.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A study has found that parents’ relationship with their children may influence children’s health in mid-life.
Previous studies related growing up in an affluent household to having adequate nutrition, sufficient sleep, and good social skills. However, a study by Baylor University has found that in addition to high socioeconomic status (SES), a strong parent-child relationship is needed to urge children to eat healthy, sleep right, and perform physical activities. These practices contribute to having a healthy mid-life, which is characterized by being less prone to illnesses like cancer and respiratory diseases.
On the other hand, researchers also found that children who have weak bonds with their parents are more likely to consume unhealthy food and have irregular sleep patterns, regardless of whether they come from high or low SES.
However, findings of previous research claim that growing up in financially-challenged households may have adverse effects on children, as parents who lack financial security tend to use force to make their children obey. Because of this, children may grow up lacking valuable conversations needed in positive parent-child relations.
Apart from influencing mid-life health, parent-child relationships may also affect the way children raise their own children. A study from Oregon observed 206 boys from when they were nine years old until they were 33. The researchers looked at their relationships with their parents and later on, with their own children.
Results showed that negative parenting methods, such as displaying hostility, may be adopted by the next generation. As a consequence, children who were exposed to negative parenting traits may use the same behavior with their future children.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you agree that having a good relationship with parents can lead to good health? Why or why not?
· How would you describe a good parent-child relationship? Discuss.
Discussion B
· In your opinion, what makes a good parent? Explain.
· What other factors can affect parenting?
