Signs of Entitlement in Young People and How to Address Them
Entitlement is a behavior that can begin to surface in young people, where they believe the world revolves around them and they have a right to special treatment or outcomes. This article explores the signs of entitlement in young people and provides practical guidance for parents and educators on how to address and manage this behavior.
Understanding the Signs of Entitlement in Youth
Young people with a sense of entitlement often demonstrate behaviors indicative of a lack of empathy and a narrow focus on their immediate needs. For example, a 14-year-old might believe they know what is best for their parent, despite not having all the facts and showing zero remorse when they refuse to listen. This behavior often extends to denying reality and promoting false perceptions, even after all the truth has been revealed.
A 14-year-old who thinks they know what is best for their parent and shows no empathy or remorse is a prime example of entitlement in youth.
Behaviors Indicative of a Sense of Entitlement
The exhibited behaviors include a focus on their own needs, a narrow perspective, and a lack of understanding or empathy towards others. Additionally, young people with entitlement might frequently use "I" when speaking, indicating a belief that they are owed things, such as from their employers or even cashiers at a store. This attitude can be a byproduct of an unwarranted sense of reward for simply participating, rather than for genuine effort and accomplishment.
Using "I" in conversation frequently, such as "I can't believe" or "I should have" suggests a sense of entitlement.
The Rise of Entitlement
The issue of entitlement has grown exponentially from the practice of giving everyone trophies for participating in sports and everyday life. This mentality can lead to a generation of young people who believe that showing up to work is enough to warrant advancement. Parents from the WWII generation were taught that accomplishment leads to progress, not just showing up.
The post-WWII generation was taught that only accomplishment leads to progress and growth, not mere presence.
Identifying Entitled Behavior in Children
Behaviors that indicate entitlement in children include making unrealistic requests, lacking empathy, not contributing to the common good, and an attitude of arrogance. Children with entitlement might also fall short of contributing to community or family efforts, lack respect for authority, and be abrupt in their demeanor when their expectations are not met.
Children with a sense of entitlement are likely to make unreasonable requests and show a lack of concern for others' efforts.
Addressing Entitlement in Youth
To address entitlement in youth, it's crucial to set boundaries and ensure that children understand the value of work and effort. Parents should not give everything their children ask for and should promote the idea that earning rewards or privileges is part of working for something meaningful. Additionally, discipline should be consistent and fair, emphasizing the importance of manners and respect.
Setting clear boundaries and showing genuine interest in their child is key to addressing entitlement.
Building a Better Future
Parents should provide opportunities for their children to experience the hardships of life and understand the value of helping others. This includes educating them on different social classes and poverty, and encouraging them to be active participants in charitable activities. Being a good role model is crucial, as children will emulate the behavior they see in their parents.
Awareness of the world and empathy for others can help prevent the development of a sense of entitlement in young people.
Conclusion
By understanding the signs of entitlement and taking steps to address it, we can help shape young people into responsible and empathetic individuals. This involves teaching them the value of effort, promoting fairness and respect, and providing opportunities to experience the world and its challenges.
Addressing entitlement involves teaching young people the value of hard work, fairness, and empathy.