The women s movement too faced similar biased thinking in its initial stages. Children lack maturity, are dependent and need to be protected and cared for. It may be pointed out that children are playing active, responsible, adult roles. In some situations, children are responsible for the care of cattle, which often constitutes the entire wealth of the family. Yet participation of children is rarely proportionate with the responsibilities they are expected to shoulder.
Adults alone can make decisions which are in the best interests of the child.
Even so, abuse and exploitation are extreme examples of how adults don t necessarily view the child s well-being as essential. In other instances, the adult cannot fully comprehend the life-space of children and often need to work with children to effectively impact the youngsters lives. Adults are wary of being questioned, of sharing their power and of infringement upon their own rights. However, children s increasing participation and decision-making has never meant that adults play a superfluous role. Adults will always provide the framework within which children can participate in society, hence such fears are irrational.