 It turns out the old axiom, “spare the rod and spoil the child,” is true. While most parents do not use corporal punishment as a discipline technique anymore, not using any consequences for bad behavior can be harmful. Dr. Maggie Mamen’s new book THE PAMPERED CHILD SYNDROME: How to Recognize It, How to Manage It, and How to Avoid It (November 2005; Jessica Kingsley Publishers; $18.95; 1-84310-407-5) describes the seriousness of the problem. A reviewer from Kirkus Reports wrote, “Parents, teachers and counselors will definitely appreciate Mamen’s clear presentation of the Pampered Child Syndrome—and down the road, their children will thank them for learning to recognize, and avoid, excessive pampering.”
Dr. Mamen is quick to point out pampered children are not just enjoying shopping sprees at the toy store. These are children who are not given any limits by their parents. No amount of time or sacrifice by their parents is ever enough. The parents are usually loving and well-intentioned with no idea how much damage they are causing. The child will expect the world to coddle them and grow-up socially dysfunctional. One of the defining characteristics of Pampered Child Syndrome is that both parent and child factors have come together to mimic other well-know psychiatric and psychological diagnosis. It is often misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder or Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Mamen writes in her Preface, “We live in a child-centered society where children’s wants and demands are increasingly being given priority over marital or family harmony, financial considerations, parental sanity, common courtesy, quiet enjoyment, respect, and common sense.” Dr. Mamen can help parents recognize and undue the damage.
Maggie Mamen, Ph.D is a clinical psychologist with more than 20 years’ experience working with children and their parents. Born and raised in London, she now lives in Canada. She is the author of Who’s in Charge? A Guide to Family Management and Laughter, Love & Limits: Parenting for Life.
Jessica Kingsley Publishers specializes in producing accessible professional and academic books in the social and behavioral sciences. In 2007, Jessica Kingsley Publishers was named both the Academic & Professional Publisher of the Year and the overall Independent Publisher of the Year at the Independent Publishing Awards in London. The prizes coincide with Jessica Kingsley Publishers' 20th year as an independent company. Jessica Kingsley books are available worldwide through distributors, local bookstores and online bookstores. The company has offices in London and Philadelphia. More information can be found at www.jkp.com. |
