Are You Treated Too Nicely?
A new study found that when trying to build high self-esteem in children, parents may unconsciously be creating little narcissists (自恋狂).
Parents who are always praising their children may be trying to develop high self-esteem. In fact, too much special treatment can lead to narcissistic behavior.
" That may not be good for them or for society." Brad Bushman, co-author of the study and professor of communication and psychology at the Ohio State University, said in a press release. "People with high self-esteem think they're as good as others, whereas narcissists think they're better than others."
This study, as well as previous studies about parent-child relationships Bushman has worked on, caused him to alter his own parenting style. When he began his research, he thought that children should be treated like they are special by their parents. He said that interventions (干预) can help parents learn how to better support their children.
"Parent training interventions can, for example, teach parents to express affection and appreciation toward children without telling children that they are superior to others," Bushman said. "Future studies should test whether this can work."
A. Now he is careful not to follow that model.
B. Children whose parents tell them they are special are more likely to become narcissists.
C. But actually, they have realized that they are running their children.
D. Children believe it when their parents tell them that they are more special than others.
E. And he carefully carries out the principle.
F. However, the study showed that loving and emotionally warm parents are more likely to have confident kids.
