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© 2015 AFPTelling kids they're special may foster narcissism
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© 2015 AFP
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Bartholomew Harte
I tend to agree with this idea & feel when one keeps telling their kids that they're the best thing since sliced bread the bullying & parental pain begins!
fishy
I tell my children that every child is special. No child is more special than others, however, my children are the MOST special to me.
Fox Sora Winters
May foster narcissism? It does foster narcissism. I've encounter so many people who've grown up being told that they're special, that they're better than everyone else, and they certainly believe that. They strut around like they own the place, looking down on everyone, talking to everyone as though those people are just stupid children, and giving off a tangible air of smugness. Boy do they take it badly when they finally realise that they're not so special after all. That's pretty rare though. Some believe what their parents have told them so strongly that they will never be convinced of their mediocrity. Doesn't matter how much evidence you present to them, they'll reject it all as lies. Parents: stop this behaviour now! Your child/children is/are unique, but they're not better than others. Even if you think they are, don't say as much, or you'll turn them into narcissistic d-bags. There are few things in this world more tragic than seeing a narcissist who's just learned that the universe doesn't revolve around him/her.
Tessa
I meet quite a few of those people amongst the western population of Japan (particularly N. Americans). They get quite a shock when they discover how unimpressive they really are.
Eugene Ryan
I would rather have parents tell their kids that they are special and to believe in themselves than parents that dont . Every kid is special.
Leah Ma
I've also read that there is a narcissism gene which causes this problem. I've seen this attitude close up in people who were NOT brought up in this manner. It is also present in a great many very rich people. A true narcissist is often also a sociopath.
bruinfan
All in context and degree. Not bad in moderation.
sensei258
Rather I think my wife said it best,..."They (our grandchildren) should know they are loved."