Parents' reactions to a child's transgressions influence children's emotional reactions to their misdeeds. Children whose parents belittle them (e.g., you're bad, thoughtless, etc.) are likely to feel _____ , whereas parents who criticize their children's inappropriate acts and explain why these acts are wrong are more likely to feel _____ .

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Children who are belittled by their parents are more likely to feel shame, as they are made to feel inherently flawed. In contrast, when parents criticize specific actions and explain why they are wrong, children are more likely to feel guilt over their actions rather than feeling flawed as individuals.

Parents' Reactions to a Child's Transgressions Influence Children's Emotional Reactions