Originally published January 9 2006
Health writer criticizes parents' overindulgent treatment of their kids
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
For Seattle PI, Bob Condor writes about the current state of parenting, which places too much emphasis on the child's self-esteem, contributing to an inflated sense of self-importance and unpolished social skills.
Talk to enough adults, say 10 or so, and you will hear mostly that today's kids tend to be rude, self-absorbed and genetically predisposed to electronic toys, gaming consoles and musical devices.
One study showed 60 percent of parents identified kids as spoiled while only 15 percent of the kids said the same about themselves.
Many child development researchers will argue that the "spoiled kids syndrome" stems directly from two decades of studying ways to elevate self-esteem of children.
The standards for competence have been lowered and false praise is passed out like cups of water at a marathon.
"There's a clear sense that things have come easier for this generation of kids," said Kevin Haggerty, director of the Raising Healthy Children Project at the University of Washington.
Younger workers with the heightened sense of entitlement and easier path are much less patient waiting for job promotions.
Another more delicate matter is whether parents are intervening enough with children about body image issues.
You can make the argument that if you don't talk to a child about weight issues, then the media barrage will do it for you.
Her organization certifies people to become parent coaches through coursework affiliated with Seattle Pacific University.
"The game has changed fundamentally and forever."
DeGaetano didn't allow her sons to play video games until they were 12 years old because brain development research convinced her the electronic interaction was much more harmful than healthful.
DeGaetano doesn't automatically equate spoiled kids with too many holiday gifts.
"Don't allow your kids to feel absolutely entitled to everything on their lists," said Doherty, who, trust me, is far from the bah-humbug sort of guy.
Both DeGaetano and Doherty said restaking family ties is the critical step.
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml