This is not the first time Thailand has seen political gatherings from various groups, nor is it the first time that people within the same household hold differing political opinions. The youth-led protests may lead to differing views among family members. Above all, "Even if we disagree, we must coexist."

12 Tips for Parents
Dr. O, or Dr. Jiraphorn Arunakorn, a pediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital, wrote about #WhenWeAndOurChildrenDisagreePolitically on her Facebook page, Parenting Outside the Home. She noted that her adolescent clinic has seen parents expressing concern about their children getting involved in political issues: "They won't listen to me when I forbid them. They threaten to cut ties with me!" "After all the money spent on their education, how can they be so easily led?" "Can you talk to them and tell them to stay away from these things?"
Dr. O has the following advice for parents:
7. Do not rush to label your child as foolish. Today's youth grow up with vast knowledge; always encourage them to question their own ignorance.
Dr. O believes that conflict and questioning always lead to change. Listening creates a safe space, embracing differing opinions with understanding, and avoiding violence should be the solution to the conflicts that arise. Ultimately, if you understand and agree with what your child believes, "be their strength."

Mental Health Experts Stress the Need to Accept Differing Opinions
Meanwhile, Dr. Yongyuth Wongphiram, an advisor at the Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Public Health, stated that expressing opinions in a democratic manner should not be viewed as right or wrong, nor should there be pressure on children not to act in certain ways. Schools do not need to be free of politics; rather, it should be seen as part of expressing responsible youth engagement in society and love for the nation. In fact, if schools provide a platform or extracurricular activities for students to express their opinions, discuss issues, and clarify their demands, it would be beneficial. There is no need to express these opinions only during the national anthem; this can be discussed and should be seen as an example of free expression and listening in a democratic framework that welcomes all opinions without viewing dissenters as enemies. It is believed that when the reasons and rationale are explained, and social norms are respected, these youth, who possess adult-like qualities, will understand.
True democracy must be open and accept differing opinions without labeling people as good or bad. This is an opportunity to test the essence of democracy, and adults should not view this as a lack of patriotism or wrongdoing because these youths are just young people without power. On the contrary, those in power must listen to the voices of the small and be cautious in using their power, controlling themselves, and avoiding hate speech such as nationalism or anti-nationalism. If those in power believe that they can solve problems more easily, they must accept that political disagreements or constitutional amendments cannot be resolved in a day. At the same time, in society, this should be seen as an opportunity for development; where there are no differing opinions, there is no way to progress or develop.
"Using rhetoric such as nationalism or dinosaurism should not occur. Everyone must be able to listen to differing opinions, thus creating a democratic society. The role of parents or the family should not highlight that having such thoughts will lead to unemployment or lack of advancement in society; this would only foster hatred. On the contrary, parents should support and engage in discussions about the doubts or thoughts that arise," Dr. Yongyuth stated.
The best way to support society is to:

  1. Not view these events as organized.
  2. Consider how youth proposals impact society.
  3. Provide reasoning and solutions.
  4. Always think that not everything needs to change; we must find a balance between two extremes.

SOURCE: www.bangkokbiznews.com