Edited sentence: A large part of what motivates school-aged children is peer influence.However, an alternate argument, from a more "realistic" point-of-view, is that retention should be employed at all levels.School isn't a place for hugs, it's a place for books.School should be a place to learn and not a place to babysit the kids of parents who don't pick up the baton after teachers pass it off.Students will only value their education if they come from a home/family that places a high value on education, even moreso than the child's own individuality; or if they are taught to do so, by well-paid, competent teachers at the elementary level.The "pro-promotion" argument relies heavily on the whole, "hurting-the-feelings-of-the-student" aspect.This is exactly what should be done.You can make a kid feel good about themselves by teaching them to overcome obstacles on their own, and not just allow the government to help them side-step the obstacles