A Sense of Entitlement: The main character, Doodle, a physically challenged boy, is born into a family that believes physical and mental perfection are essential. Because of this mindset, they tend to neglect their responsibilities towards him. Both Brother and Aunt try to force him to fit into their expectations instead of accepting his disabilities.
Unreasonable Expectations: Brother sees Doodle as a burden, and is ashamed of him. Instead of taking charge of the situation, he makes Doodle take responsibility for his shortcomings. Brother doesn't consider the emotional and physical toll that his expectations might have on his brother, and fails to act responsibly with his words and actions.
Consequences of Neglect: By putting immense pressure on Doodle and refusing to accept his differences, Brother creates an environment of isolation and emotional suffocation. Doodle's self-esteem plummets, and his fear of not measuring up to others worsens. Instead of taking responsibility for their actions, both Brother and Aunt try to find excuses for their neglect.
Apathy and Ignorance: Brother's failure to understand Doodle's limitations prevents him from recognizing his own part in Doodle's demise. He blames fate and other external forces instead of taking responsibility for his actions. By doing so, he demonstrates a lack of self-awareness and growth.
Emotional Toll: The story highlights how neglecting one's responsibilities and failing to accept others for who they are can have devastating emotional consequences. Doodle internalizes the message that he is a burden, and his self-esteem suffers. The story cautions readers about the importance of being mindful of the impact their actions have on others.
Ultimately, The Scarlet Ibis reminds readers that self-responsibility involves accepting our own limitations, understanding the impact of our actions on others, and fostering supportive environments. By reflecting on these themes, readers are encouraged to take charge of their choices and cultivate a sense of accountability in their relationships with others.