Parents often give children everything they ask for and do what they like. Is it good for children? What are the consequences when they grow up?
Modern parents are giving into children’s demands and buy them all the latest toys and gadgets. I would argue that on no account can this parenting style bring any benefits for kids in the long run. Worse still, this negative education would cause detrimental consequences when they reach adulthood.
First, over-indulgence can be harmful to young children, both socially and developmentally. When kids are provided with the latest must-have items, they are less likely to grasp the notion of sharing or appreciation for their parents’ affection. Eventually, they interpret negative behaviours such as whining or begging as a way to manipulate others. In addition, little do the young ones comprehend the value of hard-earned money if adults keep showering them in spending splurges. Consequently, spoilt kids can become insensitive to the needs of others, are prone to temper tantrum and have trouble deferring gratification.
Second, instant gratification could lead to adverse consequences in the future. Children who are spoiled do not have to learn responsible behaviours. Nor do they understand the concept of boundaries as adults and can develop problems such as gambling, overeating or drinking. Lacking in emotional maturity and having poor problem-solving skills, these adults might flounder and become unhappy with their lives. Furthermore, as over-indulged and over protected kids do not grasp the lesson of giving and taking in a relationship, they can have difficulty in establishing and maintaining meaningful friendships.
In short, sometimes effective parenting skills involve resisting the desire to give kids whatever they want. Indeed, spoilt kids can lack life skills necessary to successfully negotiate the demands of adulthood given that their troubles have always been tackled by parents’ money.
