A recent study from researchers at the University of Missouri and the University of Chicago, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, has stirred up some serious discussion. Good Housekeeping reported that these researchers surveyed 701 individuals, delving into their childhood experiences, particularly regarding the incentives—both rewards and punishments—they faced during formative years.
The findings may challenge the well-intentioned tactics of many parents. It turns out that children who received material gifts as rewards for good behavior—or simply as a way for parents to show their love—were more likely to become adults who prioritize possessions above all else.
Education expert Alfie Kohn pointed out over two decades ago that extrinsic rewards—rewards given from an outside source—often backfire. Whether it’s punishing a child for not achieving a certain grade or rewarding them with a treat for memorizing vocabulary, these methods tend to produce only short-term compliance. Once the cookie jar is empty, so too is the motivation to learn.
Good Housekeeping’s catchy title, “how to raise a down-to-earth kid, according to science,” raises an interesting question: how do we even define a “down-to-earth” child? Every parent dreams of nurturing a kid who appreciates learning or spending time with family purely for the joy it brings, rather than as a step toward acquiring the latest gaming console. By associating consumer goods with rewards, parents inadvertently teach their children that material items hold more value than personal growth or achievement, which should be the true reward.
According to study authors Linda Baker and Tom Sanders, “Using material possessions to show love or reward children for their successes can backfire. Even the most loving and supportive parents may unwittingly cultivate materialism in their children, despite their efforts to promote happiness from within.” This serves as a reminder that the path to raising balanced individuals may not lie in material rewards, but rather in fostering intrinsic motivation and appreciation for the non-material joys of life.
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In summary, rewarding children with material items can lead to a fixation on possessions rather than fostering a love for learning and personal growth. Parents should consider nurturing intrinsic motivation and valuing experiences over material goods to raise well-rounded individuals.
Keyphrase: Avoid Material Rewards for Your Kids
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