《文化对比阅读》(上) Unit 1-- Parenting Style 5. 5 Parenting Styles That Cause Entitlement in Kids.docVIP

5 Parenting Styles That Cause Entitlement in Kids and How to Change Them Amy McCready We all have them: the “What were we thinking?〞 parenting moments. We let our kids sneak in after curfew because we don’t want another battle. Or we stock our purse with candy to make it through errands. Or maybe we’ve been cleaning the forgotten guinea pig’s cage — every Saturday for two years! Guilty as charged? In fact, most of us have probably gone to similar extremes rather than trying to actually change our kids’ behavior. There’s nothing wrong with helping our kids out every so often — but when our “helping〞 and “allowing〞 become a way of life, we’re walking the slippery slope of the entitlement epidemic. In fact, more and more parents are recognizing the signs of entitlement in their kids. We see kids who won’t lift a finger to help out, who think the world revolves around them, who rarely show gratitude and empathy and who demand more...more...more! But the seeds of entitlement are sown over the years in a million little parenting decisions — all made in the name of love. Sometimes a few tweaks in parenting style can make all the difference. Below are some of the most common entitlement-prone parenting styles, as well as a few proven fixes: 1. The “Keep Em Happy at All Costs〞 Parent This might be you if:?You’d rather let your kids dominate your phone during errands or pull strings with teachers and coaches than face a tantrum. When we drop everything to help our kids avoid unhappiness or disappointment, we teach them that their happiness is a top priority. Kids develop the entitled “What’s in it for me?〞 attitude whenever they’re asked to behave or show kindness. And when they face life’s setbacks, like not making the team, they’re unable to cope. Make a clean break by telling your kids, “You’re really growing up, and I’m confident you can make it through the grocery store without my phone.〞 Then, help your kids develop some strategies for overcoming difficulties large and