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Essay / The Other Wes Moore: Family Influences
Table of ContentsFamily Structure and StabilityParental Orientation and ExpectationsExtended Family and Community SupportConclusionIn "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates," author Wes Moore examines the divergent paths of two individuals who share the same name but experience very different life outcomes. The memoir juxtaposes the lives of the author and another Wes Moore, both of whom grew up in similar Baltimore neighborhoods under difficult circumstances. An essential factor that differentiates their trajectories is the influence of their family. This essay explores how family dynamics, advice, and support significantly impact the lives of both Wes Moores, ultimately shaping their destinies. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayFamily Structure and StabilityThe structure and stability of a family are fundamental elements that profoundly affect a child's development. Author Wes Moore grew up in a relatively stable home, despite the untimely death of his father. His mother, Joy, played a central role in providing stability and discipline. She was determined to see her children succeed and made significant sacrifices to ensure they had a better future. For example, Joy moved her family to the Bronx to live with her parents when she realized that Baltimore was becoming too dangerous. This decision provided author Wes with a safer environment and access to better educational opportunities. On the other hand, the other Wes Moore grew up in a more unstable environment. Her father was absent and her mother, Mary, struggled to provide for her children. She faced many challenges, including financial instability and lack of support systems. The lack of a stable father figure and the constant struggle for survival contributed to the other Wes's feelings of despair and frustration. This instability set the stage for his eventual involvement in criminal activity as he sought to assert control over his life in the only way he knew how. Parental guidance and expectations Parental guidance and expectations play a crucial role in shaping a child's aspirations and behavior. Author Wes Moore benefited from his mother's high expectations and unwavering belief in his potential. Joy emphasized the importance of education and discipline, enrolling Wes in a private school despite financial difficulties. She also sent him to military school when he began showing signs of behavioral problems. These decisions, although difficult, were instrumental in setting author Wes Moore on the path to success. On the other hand, the other Wes Moore lacked consistent parental guidance and positive reinforcement. His mother, Mary, had aspirations for her children but was often overwhelmed by her circumstances. She tried to emphasize the importance of education, but a lack of resources and support made it difficult to implement consistently. The lack of strong parental guidance left the other Wes Moore vulnerable to negative influences from his environment, leading him to make poor choices that ultimately resulted in his imprisonment. Broader Family and Community SupportBroader family and community support is an additional level of influence that can significantly impact an individual's life. Author Wes Moore benefited from a strong support network that extended beyond his immediate family. Her grandparents, aunts and uncles provided her with emotional and financial support, reinforcing the values her mother taught her..