What Happens When Kids Are Over-Praised? 21 Traits That Manifest In Their Adulthood
Praise is a powerful tool in parenting. It can boost self-esteem and encourage positive behavior.
However, excessive praise during childhood can have unexpected consequences. Psychologists suggest that being overly praised can lead to specific traits in adulthood.
Here are 21 traits commonly found in adults who experienced excessive praise as children.
High Self-Esteem
Overly praised children often grow into adults with inflated self-esteem. They may believe they can do no wrong.
This confidence can be beneficial but can also lead to arrogance.
Difficulty Handling Criticism
Adults who received excessive praise may struggle with criticism. They may take feedback very personally.
This can create challenges in both personal and professional relationships.
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Fear of Failure
An overwhelming focus on success can lead to a fear of failure. These adults may avoid risks to protect their self-image.
This fear can limit their growth and opportunities.
Overconfidence
Being showered with praise can foster overconfidence. Adults may underestimate challenges and overestimate their abilities.
This can lead to poor decision-making.
Seeking External Validation
Those who were excessively praised may continually seek approval from others. Their self-worth can become tied to external validation.
This can create an unhealthy cycle of dependence.
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Difficulty in Relationships
High self-esteem paired with a fear of failure can complicate relationships. These adults may struggle with vulnerability.
They might find it hard to connect with others genuinely.
Unrealistic Expectations
Overly praised children can develop unrealistic expectations for themselves. They might strive for perfection in every aspect of life.
This can lead to constant disappointment and burnout.
Lack of Resilience
Having never faced substantial criticism, they may lack resilience. When faced with adversity, they might struggle to bounce back.
This can hinder personal and professional growth.
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A Sense of Entitlement
Excessive praise can foster a sense of entitlement in adulthood. These individuals may believe they deserve special treatment.
This mindset can alienate them from others.
Limited Coping Skills
Overly praised children may not learn effective coping strategies. They may struggle to manage stress and setbacks.
This can lead to emotional instability in adulthood.
Superficial Relationships
Those who experienced excessive praise might develop shallow relationships. They may struggle to form deep connections.
This can lead to feelings of loneliness.
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Perfectionism
A constant drive for excellence can manifest as perfectionism. These adults might be overly critical of themselves and others.
This can create a high-pressure environment in their lives.
Avoidance of Challenges
To maintain their self-image, they might avoid challenging situations. This can limit their growth and experiences.
They may miss out on valuable life lessons.
Comparison with Others
Adults who were over-praised may frequently compare themselves to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and jealousy.
They might struggle to appreciate their own achievements.
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Inability to Accept Imperfection
A focus on praise can make it difficult to accept imperfection. These individuals may struggle to tolerate mistakes.
This can lead to a lack of self-compassion.
High Anxiety Levels
The pressure to maintain a perfect image can lead to anxiety. These adults may constantly worry about how they are perceived.
This can create a cycle of stress and unhappiness.
Overemphasis on Appearance
Excessive praise can lead to an overemphasis on physical appearance. These adults might prioritize looks over other qualities.
This can create superficial value systems.
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Difficulty in Self-Reflection
Being overly praised may hinder their ability to self-reflect. They might struggle to see areas for personal growth.
This can stunt emotional development.
Lack of Gratitude
With a sense of entitlement, they might struggle with gratitude. These adults may not appreciate the efforts of others.
This can lead to strained relationships.
Overly Competitive Nature
An upbringing filled with praise can foster competitiveness. These individuals may constantly feel the need to outdo others.
This can create tension in friendships and work relationships.
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Surface-Level Confidence
While they may appear confident, this confidence can be superficial. It often masks underlying insecurities.
These adults may struggle with self-doubt despite outward bravado.
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