Chapter 3, Problem 1RA-P85

Summary Introduction

Introduction

It has become more and more common for people to praise children for each and every aspect of their life. There is debate on how much praise is the right amount and how much is too much. There is also discussion about the types of praise which may be valuable to a child verses mindless praise that encourages dependence on others because without that praise, an individual may have difficulty making judgments on their own. There has become a greater interest in giving children (and adults) encouragement over praise.

Explanation of Solution

Suggested response

Consider the different ways a child may receive praise and the possible long-term effects constant praise can have on someone over the course of their life. When a child who is always praised for any effort becomes an adult and enters college, they may discover praise comes less frequently. Consider whether the young adult navigating through college life will have developed the skills necessary to make their own judgments without the praise of other adults. On the other hand, consider how actions like encouragement can build self-esteem and confidence. There are different ways to encourage or praise someone for a job well done besides using meaningless phrases such as that. Consider the different kinds of remarks that address the actual strength behind the reason for praise. For example, if someone writes an essay that is good, instead of saying those words, a person could specify what exactly makes the essay good, such as, “the essay was thoroughly researched with a compelling argument that is well supported by evidence.”