Scientifically Supported Ways To Raise Kinder and Less Entitled Kids

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Nearly every parent has thought about their kid acting entitled, even if they haven’t done so just yet!

It’s bound to happen to every child at some point – it may be a small tantrum for not getting that ice-cream after school or just a plain lack of respect. Unfortunately, it comes with the territory especially today in a world where kids are so engrossed in their computers or mobile phones.

So what do you do when your child acts this way?

A recent article published by the Washington Post has some interesting ideas for parents to help raise nicer and less entitled kids. All of the ideas are backed up by science, behavioural economics to be exact!

Let’s break down these tips into simple language:

1.Your Kids Need To Think About Other People

In the article, they use an example where kids are moaning about their food taking time to get to the table and blaming the waitress. Its suggested that parents should give their kids an explanation about how the waitress may be having a bad day or that the restaurant is extremely busy. They also suggest that parents give the child a reminder that they are extremely lucky to be having a meal at a restaurant while there are millions of people out there who are not able to.

2.Don’t Give Your Kids The Idea That They Are Entitled To A Charming Life

This one is quite simple to understand and it’s all about the standards and norms you set for your kids. If something becomes a regular occurrence or is regularly available, they will think that its “normal” (Hedonic Adaptation is the Scientific term).

3.The Identifiable Victim Effect

It’s a fact that humans tend to care less about foreign countries that are in a bad space. What could work, is telling or even showing your kid about another little one who is suffering. It will make the hardship seem more realistic and vivid in their minds.

4.Bribing Is A NO-NO

Research says that we are more motivated to act as part of a social transaction instead of a financial one. This means that paying our kids to do their chores isn’t always going to turn out as we hope. At first it may work and it is no problem to pay for occasional, large tasks.

However, for everyday chores, they will just refuse when they don’t really need the money!