Spoiled teenagers
Parents dealing with spoiled teenagers are very likely exhausted and fed up, and it is no wonder. Child psychiatrist Dr. Carl Pickhardt writes: “What is worse than a spoiled child? A spoiled adolescent, because this young person is years closer to becoming a spoiled adult” (psychologytoday.com).
Of course, there is no technical definition for what constitutes “spoiled.” But when we think of a spoiled teen, we imagine “someone who thinks of no one but himself, who sees himself as the center of social interest and concern, who believes the satisfaction of his needs should overrule the needs of others, and who is insensitive and uncaring about what the needs of others are” (pychologytoday.com).
Spoiled teenagers, unfortunately, do not just magically appear. They are created. “Parents spoil their children for a variety of reasons. They might feel guilty about not spending quality time with their child. Or, maybe they’re trying to make up for the things they didn’t have when they were young” (parentingideas.org)
As a parent, it is your job to raise your child in such a way so as not to foist a spoiled brat upon the rest of society. There are many things you can do to begin. First, observe your own behavior. Often, that is the fundamental cause of the problem. Do you coddle your child? Do you make sure that your child has every comfort, and that his every want is met, without having to exert any effort on his own? This might be the very root of your spoiled teenager problem.
Set limits and behavioral boundaries for your child. Tie misbehavior to consequences. Be sure to insist that your child contribute to household chores. Make your teenager work for the things she wants. If she is old enough, have her get a job. If she is not yet able to work outside the home, find chores that she can do to pay for the special items she wants. These steps will teach spoiled teenagers discipline, respect for others and a strong work ethic.
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