Parents Who Make These 3 Mistakes Most Likely Raise Narcissistic Kids
Nobody is likely to be born with narcissism. They simply tend to acquire it based on their environment.
During their formative years, children pick up on these narcissistic behaviors, which are characterized by a sense of superiority, entitlement, and lack of empathy, and parents play a significant part in this.
But before we discuss what parents should do or avoid to create helpful, compassionate children, let’s first explore the delicate distinction between self-confidence and narcissism and decipher the indications that can help you identify the latter.
What are the Signs of Narcissism in Kids?
Among the telltale characteristics of narcissistic kids are the: –
- Putting down other children;
- A tendency to bully;
- Difficulty developing excellent, long-lasting friends;
- Being habitually haughty or frigid.
- Intolerant
- The practice of constantly blaming others for one’s own mistakes and failings.
Experts feel that parents play a big influence in raising such narcissistic children. Having said that, the following parenting mistakes are frequently related to such child characteristics.
These are 3 Mistakes Made by Parents
You are not Aware of Your Detrimental Actions
As a parent, you have the right to reprimand your child’s inappropriate behavior, but you should equally accept your flaws and errors. Typically, children learn by observing and looking up to their parents, so if you depict yourself negatively, they will likely follow in your footsteps. Having said that, you must make reparations and assist your child in developing emotional intelligence, i.e. greater empathy for the feelings of others.
You Invalidate Your Child’s Feelings
How you treat your child affects who they become in the long run. If you continually reject or dismiss their feelings and emotions, if you regularly tell them that what they’re feeling or how they’re behaving is incorrect, it will be tough for them to manage their behavior. Therefore, even if you disagree with your child’s opinion or decisions, you should not isolate them. Communicate with them and let them know you understand why they are upset. Lend them a helping hand and work with them to find a solution. In this manner, they will also comprehend empathy.
You do not Evaluate Your Children’s Narcissistic Attitude
Some of the characteristics of a narcissistic child include tantrums in public, refusal to admit fault, and shifting blame to others. As a parent, you should not attempt to avoid your child’s bad behavior. Ask inquiries such as “what’s going on? “, “how are you feeling? “, and “is there anything I can do to make you feel better?” – These are inquiries that not only identify narcissistic behaviors but also allow youngsters to feel heard.
Advice for Parents
There are several approaches to addressing and coping with narcissism in children:-
- Keep loving your child and do not establish unreasonable expectations.
- Help them develop emotional intelligence and teach them how their actions affect others.
- Demonstrate proper conduct
- Improve their listening skills
- Establish required boundaries
- Commend them when they assist someone
- Do not be reluctant to confront their attitude of entitlement