Images of the Times: Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) is a little-known yet deeply concerning condition found among children. It is characterized by an unusual friendliness and lack of fear toward strangers. Children with this disorder often approach unfamiliar adults without hesitation, talk openly, and display an inappropriate level of trust. While some may see this as an innocent or charming trait, it can expose the child to serious risks. What makes the situation alarming is the assumption that nearly half of the children worldwide may show symptoms of this disorder—though no large-scale study has yet confirmed it. In most traditional societies, a strong network of family, neighbors, and community values acted as a natural safeguard for children. A child’s openness was balanced by the collective watchfulness of the society. But with the weakening of family ties, urban anonymity, and the growing influence of social media, that protective circle is shrinking. Parents today are busier than ever, and though they love their children dearly, the time they spend with them is limited. It is in this vacuum that Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder finds fertile ground. Modern parents must therefore be more alert and protective. Childbirth itself is becoming rarer due to changing lifestyles and economic pressures. Children are now treated as precious assets — emotionally, socially, and even economically. Unfortunately, this has also given rise to dark markets that trade in child abduction and resale. News of missing children no longer shocks us because it appears so frequently. Yet, each case is a tragedy that reflects society’s collective failure to protect its most vulnerable members. Primary schools, too, carry a moral responsibility. Education must go beyond textbooks; it must include lessons in safety, awareness, and discernment. Teachers and administrators should be trained to recognize behavioral signs of DSED and to handle children with extra care. Police forces, on their part, need specialized units to investigate child theft and trafficking. Coordination between parents, schools, and law enforcement can form a strong barrier against such crimes. However, Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder is not confined to childhood alone. If we look closely, even adults sometimes exhibit similar behavior — especially in politics. We trust leaders too easily, accept promises without verification, and follow slogans without questioning motives. Like children who believe every stranger’s smile, we, too, fall prey to charm and rhetoric. Our misplaced faith and lack of critical thinking make us politically “disinhibited.” In that sense, DSED becomes a mirror reflecting the psychological state of society at large. Ultimately, the disorder reminds us of two truths: that innocence, while beautiful, must be guided; and that trust, while essential, must be earned. Protecting children from emotional and physical harm begins with awareness — and perhaps, protecting our collective integrity as adults begins with it too. "Images of the Times" https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0DWLSSBQJ #அரசியல் #✍️ கதைகள் #✍🏻புது கவிதைகள்📝 #நாட்டுநடப்பு