Today’s youth are becoming more narcissistic; this is good and bad. A report has come out stating that college students are more narcissistic then ever before (they began the report in 1982). This might be due to how parents began really trying to improve their children’s self esteem in the 80s. Our society is in a pattern of repeatedly telling our children how special they are and how nothing can stop them if they put their mind to it. This article spoke of a song commonly sung to the tune of “Frere Jacques” in preschool: “I am special, I am special. Look at me.” I personally have never heard a child sing this song, but I can imagine what an impact it would be on a young child who repeatedly sung this tune.
“Narcissism can have benefits, said study co-author W. Keith Campbell of the University of Georgia, suggesting it could be useful in meeting new people "or auditioning on 'American Idol. Unfortunately, narcissism can also have very negative consequences for society, including the breakdown of close relationships with others," he said.” The article states that narcissists are more likely to not have extended romantic relationships, lack of emotional warmth and have over-controlling violent behaviors. They also take criticism poorly, which does not play any kind of positive role in bettering our society.
The younger generation does seem to be more confident in them-selves and assertive, which are good qualities to have, but when taken too far it can become a negative. We are being encouraged to act this way though, threw new technologies such as Myspace and YouTube. Both encourage people to seek attention and do what ever it takes to stand out.
http://www.kirotv.com/education/11119883/detail.html
3 comments:
I am not surprised with this study that narcissism is in the rise. The factors that encourage this phenomena is not only the parents that tell their children ‘you are special’, it is the whole society in general. It become an American culture that white-lie is a must. No one dares to tell the truth, of someone’s personal look, or voice, even if they ask; (except Simon, in American Idol,) these days. Nothing is wrong to be self-love or self-admired but when it reaches the abnormal self-admiration is when it creates the problem. I think we need to be more realistic in our actions when we are telling others to be honest and truthful.
I can take an example of the American Idol auditions, some of those contestants should not be there in the first place, if they have been told that they could not sing, and yet they come out there and embarrass themselves; then blame poor Simon.
It is not the parents fault, it is the whole community: It takes a whole village to raise a child.
I think more research needs to be done before jumping to any conclusions. I am pretty sure before the 80's parents were telling their children they were special. Also it seems like manners may have gotten worse through the decades and more people are feeling comfortable saying how they feel if it's negative or not. So I don't see how people are so nice it leads to narcissism or how singing a children’s song can lead to it. I am not convinced but I understand the point.
As a nanny, ans soon-to-be parent, this is a crutial issue to me. Not only are parents constantly telling their kids that they can do anything, and are more special than anything in the world, but they are saying the word "no" less and less. Clearly, children are NOT alone int he world, and let's face it, one is not any more importnat than the rest. WE are sending a message that creates a superiority complex. It is important to be supportive, and let your children know how much you believe in them, but it is also important to strees the importance of the feelings, well-being, and capabilities of others. It is frustrating to me when the four-year-old that I wantch is convinced that he is as strong as superman, and can fight like a marine. Honestly, sometimes I swear kids need to take a school-yard beating to knock them back down to earth!
Post a Comment