Father Walks Son on Leash in Mall, Igniting Heated Online Debate on Child Safety

A recent video circulating online has sparked a widespread debate after it showed a father guiding his young son through a bustling shopping mall using a child safety leash. The footage, uploaded by Najzena.rs, quickly garnered significant attention, prompting varied reactions across social media platforms. While some viewers condemned the use of a leash, deeming it inappropriate or dehumanizing for a child, others strongly defended the practice as a necessary safety measure in crowded public spaces. Proponents argued that such devices can prevent children from getting lost or running into dangerous situations. The discussion gained further depth when a mother of an autistic child shared her personal experience, explaining her reliance on a similar leash. She stated that for children who do not fully grasp potential dangers or have a tendency to wander, a safety leash is not a choice but a vital tool. Despite often facing judgment from strangers, she emphasized that it provides essential assistance in ensuring her child's security. The incident highlights the ongoing conversation about modern parenting techniques and the balance between child autonomy and safety in an increasingly complex world.