Wake-up call to parents who praise too much
Some psychologists and authors are backtracking on their earlier directives to praise, praise, praise. They say overpraising creates overinflated egos, not positive self-esteem. It also overly protects children from experiencing conflict and failure. It’s something to think about as another school year begins.
Among those making a U-turn is Florida State University psychology professor Roy Baumeister, who for 30 years attempted to document the value of positive self-esteem, only to experience “one of the biggest disappointments of my career.”
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One Comment to
“Wake-up call to parents who praise too much”
As a former teacher to 5 year olds, and a former youth leader of 12-18 year olds, I agree with your statement that too much praise is a waste and really not useful in terms of developing self-esteem.
I found that by noticing specific behvaiors, commenting on them to youth, seems very beneficial as a path to developing self-esteem and self-awareness in general. I believe that praise is acceptable when a child has failed at something continously, and when it is achieved, I think any of us need a little praise.
As a current practicing therapist in training, it is fascinating to not use empty praise and see how people adjust to that experience.
It is like icing, too much, and it ruins the body of the cake!
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Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 7 Sep 2005
