Whether children develop into responsible members of society is often attributed either to family upbringing or to formal education. Some argue that parents should teach social behaviour, while others believe this task belongs mainly to schools. This essay discusses both perspectives and argues that parents bear the primary responsibility, with schools playing a vital supporting role.

Advocates of parental responsibility maintain that social values are formed through constant interaction at home. Parents demonstrate respect, honesty, and empathy in everyday situations, and children absorb these behaviours gradually. For example, clear boundaries, shared household duties, and collaborative attitudes within the family influence conduct well before children enter school. Because this guidance is continuous and emotionally rooted, the home environment has a lasting impact on moral and social development.

By contrast, others contend that schools are better equipped to teach children how to function in society. Educational institutions provide structure, common rules, and exposure to diverse peers. In classrooms, students engage in teamwork, learn to follow regulations, and interact with people from different backgrounds, which helps foster tolerance and civic awareness. Moreover, teachers can address behavioural issues systematically, especially where parental guidance is weak or inconsistent.

In my opinion, although schools make an important contribution, parents should remain the main educators of social conduct. Early family influence is personal and sustained in ways schools cannot fully replicate. Therefore, healthy social development relies on effective parenting reinforced by schooling, rather than transferring this core responsibility entirely to educational institutions.