In this video, positivity psychologist and life coach Dr. Paul Jenkins puts comparisons under the spotlight – specifically parents comparing their child to other children.

Acknowledging that the act of comparing is innate in everyone, Dr. Jenkins nevertheless turns mums’ and dads’ attention to three outcomes of evaluating their kids against their peers.

  • Firstly, comparisons impact – for good or ill – how parents feel themselves
  • Secondly, comparisons by parents model for kids how to make judgements, and which standards count
  • Thirdly, positive comparisons can pressure kids to ‘perform’ in order to live up to expectations

Instead of comparing a kid to others, Dr. Jenkins suggests parents focus on their child’s individual strengths, interests and achievements, which will build up their confidence to express their unique potential.

View the original video here.

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