Section 2:1 Growth Patterns
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He walks her to the door and holds it open
for her. The reason is motivation. Manuel is
motivated by his desire to know Lori better
and maybe date her.
‚ A sense of mercy and justice moves a person to
uphold the laws of society and show regard
for others’ rights and feelings. Your thoughts,
feelings, and actions reflect your concern
about the rights of others. A sense of mercy
and justice is displayed when you treat others
in a caring way, with fairness and respect for
their rights and views.
These are some of the character traits that
may be present or absent in a person’s life. People
who often show these traits are considered
strong in character. They respond with ethical
behavior. A person who rarely shows these traits
is considered weak in character.
character development. Many character traits
are learned through direct teaching by parents.
Children may be taught to be kind to others or
to tell the truth. They may be told to never take
what belongs to someone else.
The family also teaches character by setting
behavior guidelines. For instance, a teen might be
expected to complete his or her homework before
going out with friends. When parents require that
children follow these guidelines, they are helping
the child learn responsibility.
Families reinforce their teachings through
training. This is a second way that families teach
character. Children are provided opportunities
to practice how to act responsibly. They may
be given responsibilities around the house.
They may help with household chores or care
for siblings. Caring for a family pet can teach
children to carry out daily responsibilities. All
these experiences help children develop strength
in character.
Families also teach their children by example.
Certain adult character traits may be modeled, or
copied, by young family members. For instance, a
sense of justice can be taught by example. When
children are treated fairly, they usually learn to
treat others the same way. When children see
adults act with integrity, they tend to likewise be
honest.
Religion can be a strong influence in character
development. Various religious faiths teach
standards of right and wrong. Many people
feel these standards give meaning and direction
to their lives. Their religious beliefs serve as a
foundation for their character formation.
Schools also influence character development.
Students learn dependability and responsibility
through homework assignments and group
projects. Schools set standards for acceptable
behavior, too. Such standards encourage integrity
and self-discipline by requiring students to do
their own work. Standards of performance help
students learn to do a job well. Standards for
treating other students with respect and fairness
teach a sense of mercy and justice. Teachers
influence character development by modeling
strong character traits that support these standards.
Encouraging character development is easiest
when a child is young. However, character traits
evolve over time, and character development
continues throughout life.
2-8
Doing your part in team class projects shows you are
able to be responsible.
Think More About It
What are some ways that unethical behavior
is promoted in society?
The Development of
Character
Character development starts when a child
is young and continues throughout life. The
teaching, training, and examples provided by
families are the first influences on a child’s