* Home environment is foundational: The family is typically the primary source of moral instruction and values. A child's upbringing, including parental guidance, discipline, and modeling of behavior, significantly shapes their moral compass. A neglectful, abusive, or morally lax home environment can significantly outweigh any positive influence the school might offer.
* Peer influence is powerful: A student's peer group exerts considerable pressure, both positive and negative. The values and behaviors of friends and classmates can strongly influence a student's choices, often more than school teachings.
* Media and societal influences: Exposure to media (television, movies, internet) and broader societal trends (violence, consumerism, etc.) can significantly affect moral development. These influences often contradict or challenge the values taught at school and home.
* Individual factors: A student's personality, temperament, and inherent tendencies also contribute to their moral choices. Some individuals may be more susceptible to peer pressure or less inclined to internalize moral values than others.
* School's limited scope: Schools primarily focus on academics and character building, not intensive moral policing. While they strive to instill positive values through curriculum and activities, their impact is limited by the time spent with students and the competing influences mentioned above. Furthermore, schools often lack the authority to effectively address issues originating outside of the school environment.
* Definition of "moral laxity": This term is subjective and open to interpretation. What constitutes "moral laxity" may vary significantly depending on individual perspectives and cultural norms.
In conclusion, moral development is a shared responsibility involving the family, school, peer groups, media, and the individual. While schools play a part, it's inaccurate and unproductive to hold them solely responsible for instances of "moral laxity" in students. Addressing such issues requires a holistic approach involving all these contributing factors.