On the child’s path of growth, we always hope they can rise like a phoenix and soar.
Upon closer observation, we may find some children seem to be constantly shrouded in the shadow of inferiority. How can we help children break free from this constraint and face life with confidence?
“Thought determines behavior, behavior determines habits, habits determine character, character determines destiny.”
A person’s achievements stem not only from their talents and abilities but are also deeply influenced by their character. A confident child is often positive, internally driven, and more likely to succeed on life’s journey. In contrast, an inferior child is like a corner enveloped in darkness, living heavily and painfully, struggling to find their place in society.
For inferior children, their world seems to always lack the sunshine’s illumination.
When a child displays the following four characteristics, they are likely plagued by feelings of inferiority:
Children who are excessively “mature.”
We often praise children as “obedient” and “mature,” yet when a child overly conforms to others’ expectations, lacking self-assertiveness, this “maturity” might not truly signify growth. These children often lose themselves under adult emotional influence, unknowingly making self-sacrifices to gain approval from others. Their inner selves are filled with unhappiness because they lack genuine self-identity.
Timid and shy children.
They frequently use phrases like “I can’t” or “I’m afraid” to avoid challenges, appearing uneasy in crowds, struggling to express themselves freely. These children are filled with fear and discomfort, scared of failure and ridicule. Their feelings of inferiority make social interactions difficult, hindering the establishment of healthy relationships.
Children who enjoy belittling and envying others.
They always yearn to excel in various aspects, using competition and comparison to prove their worth. Behind their competitiveness often lies deep-seated feelings of inferiority. They fear inadequacy and being surpassed by others, leading to excessive competition, exhaustion, and resorting to improper means to achieve victory.
Children who are overly competitive.
They constantly strive to excel in all areas, using competition and comparison to assert their value. Behind their competitiveness often lies deep-seated feelings of inferiority. They fear inadequacy and being surpassed by others, which leads to exhaustion from excessive competition and even resorting to improper means for victory.
Adler once said, “Everyone has varying degrees of inferiority complex.” Children feeling inferior is not frightening; the fear lies in their inability to cope with or address those feelings correctly. As parents and educators, we need to pay attention to children’s inner worlds, accompanying their growth with love and understanding. Let’s work together to create a growth environment for children full of sunshine and confidence!
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