Characteristics of a Spoiled Child

Although you didn't set out to raise a spoiled child, you might have inadvertently reinforced this kind of behavior over time. A spoiled child will demonstrate certain characteristics that indicate he has not been properly socialized and hasn't gotten over the me-first mentality. Once you have identified this issue, you can get to work on establishing and consistently reinforcing age-appropriate limits to reform your spoiled child.

  1. Temper Tantrums

    • Although temper tantrums come with the toddler territory, it can also fall into the spoiled child category if they are frequent and persist after toddlerhood. Temper tantrums can include excessive crying, falling on the floor, kicking of feet, banging heads in anger or holding breath. To avoid reinforcing this behavior, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests ignoring the temper tantrum instead of giving the child what he wants. By giving in, you are ultimately rewarding and reinforcing this negative behavior.

    Delayed Gratification

    • Delayed gratification is a lesson that is normally learned during the early childhood years. However, a spoiled child has a hard time accepting the notion of waiting to get something he wants and will react negatively, often demanding or throwing fits in an attempt to get it. Although you might be tempted to give your child the object of his desire to calm him, this actually just reinforces this behavior. You must teach him how to wait, even if it is just for a few minutes, and deal with frustration.

    Behavior

    • Rude, intrusive, obstructive and manipulative behavior is characteristic of a spoiled child. If your child is also consistently bossy and always demanding to have his own way, he is likely spoiled. Look for lack of kindness, empathy or compassion. The child will be self-absorbed and not consider other people's feelings. He will believe that what he desires is the only thing that matters.

    Sense of Entitlement

    • A spoiled child has an exaggerated sense of entitlement. He will have a hard time sharing with others and will often demand any object that catches his eye, even if it isn̵7;t his to claim. He will often be unappreciative and greedy. Keep an ear out for the spoiled child̵7;s cry of ̶0;Gimme!̶1;

    Refuses Rules

    • Rules are set for safety purposes and to establish limits. A spoiled child will have little respect for rules, whether at home or at school. He will refuse to compromise and will argue to get his way. He is often disrespectful to other people's property and will simply do as he pleases.

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