KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian couple has found themselves at the centre of a heated online debate after a TikTok video they posted showcasing their reaction to a screaming child included a suggestion of using sleeping medication. The video, shared by TikTok user Aeryll (@aeryllfamee), quickly went viral, triggering widespread outrage and criticism from viewers.

The video initially depicted Aeryll and his wife reacting to the distressing sounds of a child screaming, seemingly in a public space. While many viewers found the couple's initial reaction relatable – acknowledging the frustration and discomfort caused by such situations – the subsequent suggestion to administer sleeping medication to the child proved to be the tipping point.

Ethical Concerns and Parental Responsibility

The suggestion of using medication to silence a child, regardless of the circumstances, has raised serious ethical concerns. Critics argue that it trivializes the child's distress and disregards the importance of addressing the underlying cause of the behaviour. Experts emphasize that resorting to medication should be a last resort, only under the guidance of a medical professional, and after exploring other potential solutions like understanding the child's needs and providing comfort.

“Children scream for a reason. Often, it’s because they’re tired, hungry, frustrated, or experiencing discomfort. Instead of immediately considering medication, parents and caregivers should focus on identifying and addressing the root cause,” stated Dr. Siti Aminah, a child psychologist based in Kuala Lumpur. “Using medication to simply suppress the behaviour is not a sustainable or healthy solution.”

TikTok Community Responds

The TikTok community responded swiftly and overwhelmingly negatively. The comments section of Aeryll’s video was flooded with expressions of disapproval, with many users condemning the couple’s actions and highlighting the potential dangers of their advice. Some users pointed out that suggesting medication without professional consultation is irresponsible and potentially harmful.

“This is incredibly irresponsible and potentially dangerous advice,” commented one user. “Children should be comforted and understood, not medicated to silence them.”

Another user added, “Imagine if someone suggested giving your child sleeping pills every time they cried. It’s absurd and harmful.”

The Couple's Response

As of now, Aeryll has not publicly addressed the backlash. His TikTok account remains active, but he has not issued an apology or clarified his position on the matter. The lack of a response has further fuelled the online criticism.

Importance of Responsible Online Content

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility that content creators have when sharing advice online, particularly when it pertains to sensitive topics like child rearing. The rapid spread of information on social media platforms necessitates careful consideration of the potential impact of one's words and actions. It also underscores the importance of seeking professional advice from qualified experts when dealing with challenging parenting situations.

This case has ignited a broader conversation about parenting styles, online etiquette, and the potential consequences of sharing irresponsible advice on social media. It's a conversation that highlights the need for greater awareness and accountability within the online community.