<p>I think simlodon makes strong arguments to a forumful of adults and, correspondingly, he’s strong enough to take some differing views. </p>
<p>Insisting that parents who might/will show significant emotion/sadness at departure ban themselves from drop-off presupposes that the show of emotion would always be to the students’ detriment. Of course the college departure is about the student starting a new life, but the fact is that it’s also about saying goodbye to an old life and to loved ones. To ignore that side of the equation and to label all emotions (& any emotional expression) relating to the family separation as potentially harmful and selfish discounts the significance of the family bond and assumes that a student would react completely negatively (e.g. withdraw from school because of a few tears by mom & dad, etc.). </p>
<p>As stated previously – knowing that someone loves, cares and will miss you – while knowing they also wish you well on your new adventures – can certainly be viewed in a positive light by the student (not necessarily, but certainly it is possible). </p>
<p>Because one student might find such expressions insufferable or experienced a negative personal reaction to them does not mean that all students will. </p>
<p>Since simlodon seems to enjoy argument, he might find it interesting to consider questioning the efficacy of generalizing globally from one’s own personal experience.</p>