Most of it is just talk, of course. But what is often overlooked in it all is the fact that family values do not begin with family. They begin with God. When families and especially children determine their own values apart from God, the stage is set for dysfunctionality of the very worst sort. M uch parenting in our time has collapsed into the indulgent worship of children.
Many parents are afraid of their children.
They stand in awe of them fearing that their children won't approve of them but will instead reject them. They have given their children ultimate control over their households. You can see this in shopping malls, in supermarkets, in schools, and even in worship. Not only are children regarded as having unlimited power and control over their parents, the parents reinforce this by setting absolutely no limits for their children. Moreover, the parents then go on to launch vicious attacks on teachers, pastors, and police officers when they attempt to set or enforce even the barest of limits.