May 2, 2025

10 simple mistakes that parents commit shatter a child's confidence

TOI Lifestyle Desk

Mistakes that parents commit shatter a child's confidence

Many parents unintentionally make mistakes that can deeply affect a child’s self-esteem. These seemingly minor actions can accumulate, ultimately damaging their confidence and sense of self-worth over time.

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Constant criticism

Frequent negative comments, even on small mistakes, make children feel inadequate. Over time, this undermines their self-worth and discourages them from trying new things or expressing themselves confidently.

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Comparing with others

Telling a child to be more like a sibling or peer can make them feel inferior. Such comparisons damage self-esteem and breed resentment instead of motivating improvement.

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Dismissing emotions

Telling kids not to cry or feel upset teaches them their emotions are wrong. This prevents healthy emotional expression and reduces their confidence in handling feelings or conflicts.

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Overprotectiveness

Shielding children from every challenge denies them the chance to solve problems. They grow up doubting their abilities and fearing failure, rather than learning resilience and independence.

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Ignoring achievements

Failing to acknowledge a child’s efforts or accomplishments makes them feel invisible. Recognition builds a sense of value, and its absence lowers confidence in their abilities and contributions.

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Harsh discipline

Yelling or using punishment excessively can instill fear rather than respect. It damages trust and makes children afraid of making mistakes, hurting their self-confidence and emotional growth.

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Setting unrealistic expectations

Expecting perfection or pushing too hard sets children up for failure. When they fall short, they feel like disappointments, which erodes confidence and creates constant anxiety around achievement.

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Lack of encouragement

Without regular encouragement, children may feel their efforts don’t matter. Supportive words nurture belief in themselves, while silence in their efforts suggests they’re not good enough.

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