X
theAsianparent Philippines Logo
theAsianparent Philippines Logo
EnglishFilipino
Product GuideSign in
  • Building a BakuNation
  • Becoming a Parent
    • Trying to Conceive
    • Pregnancy
    • Delivery
    • Losing a Baby
    • Project Sidekicks
  • Ages & Stages
    • Baby
    • Toddler Years
    • Preschool Age
    • Kids
    • Preteen & Teen
  • Parenting
    • Parent's Guide
    • News
    • Relationship & Sex
  • Health & Wellness
    • Diseases & Injuries
    • Allergies & Conditions
    • Vaccinations
  • Education
    • Preschool
    • K-12
    • Special Education Needs
  • Lifestyle Section
    • Celebrities
    • Contests & Promotions
    • Home
    • Travel and Leisure
    • Fashion
    • Fitness
    • Wellness
    • Money
  • Become a VIP
  • COVID-19
  • Press Room
  • TAP Recommends
  • Shopping
  • Awards
    • Parents' Choice Awards 2023

Is there such a thing as a bad child?

3 min read
Is there such a thing as a bad child?

For the longest time, you keep hearing the old saying that "there are no bad kids, only bad parents." But is this actually true?

Children can be naughty at times. And in some cases, you'll see kids that seem like they're always acting out, having a tantrum, and sometimes even fights with other kids to get what they want.

Is it the parent's fault that their kid is like that? Or are there really 'bad' children?

Are bad children born bad?

Traditionally, psychologists have always said that 'bad' children come about because of bad or irresponsible parenting. However, the hard truth is that even in a caring and loving environment, there can be some cases where kids will grow up to become "bad" kids.

According to Leading British child psychologist Dr. Pat Spungin, "There will always be children who are much more difficult to parent than others. While I am reluctant to label children bad seeds, I think certain children are born with much less susceptibility to influence."

He adds, "Psychologists recognise that there are temperamental differences in babies from birth. The nature versus nurture argument will always be an ongoing one, but I know, from my own work, that there are children who are born with less empathy and understanding of people and who care much less about the consequences of their actions and the effects on other people."

This means that it's not enough to create a loving and caring environment for your child, it's also important to take your child's temperament into account, as children do react differently to different parenting styles.

What can parents do?

First off, it isn't right to call them 'bad' kids. There's really no such thing as a bad child, but there are children who can be hard-headed or hard to deal with.

The first thing to remember is to always remember to be understanding, and patient. Kids, and teens, will sometimes push your buttons to the point that you get frustrated and angry at them. Extend your patience, and show them that even if they're doing their best to annoy you or get you riled up, you have the maturity and patience to not let it get to you.

It's important to set good examples for your kids as well, so make sure to always be loving, caring, and respectful towards other people, especially if your child is around. Setting a precedent for kindness, love, and understanding is vital in teaching your child these values.

Additionally, try to look beyond their behavior and think about why your child is acting out. Maybe you spend too little time at home? Maybe you're not as present in their lives as they would like? There are a lot of factors which can contribute to bad behavior, so it's important to see the underlying meaning in their actions.

Partner Stories
Parents, here's what you should do when your child sees you and your spouse fighting
Parents, here's what you should do when your child sees you and your spouse fighting
#SendLoveWithBebeBata
#SendLoveWithBebeBata
3 Game Changing Baby Products that’s Now Available
3 Game Changing Baby Products that’s Now Available
13 Must-haves for Your Online Baby Checkout Checklist
13 Must-haves for Your Online Baby Checkout Checklist

Lastly, there's nothing wrong with getting outside help. Sometimes, talking to a counselor or a therapist would help your child open up better to share their feelings. Getting help doesn't mean you're a bad parent, it means that you're willing to do what it takes to help your child get in touch with their feelings and find a healthy outlet for their negative thoughts.

Sources: dailymail.co.uk, familyshare.com

READ: Mga discipline mistakes na madalas pinagsisisihan ng mga parents!

Be sure to check out theAsianparent Community for more insightful stories, questions, and answers from parents and experts alike. If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!

Got a parenting concern? Read articles or ask away and get instant answers on our app. Download theAsianparent Community on iOS or Android now!

img
Written by

Jan Alwyn Batara

Become a Contributor

  • Home
  • /
  • Parenting
  • /
  • Is there such a thing as a bad child?
Share:
  • Parent's Guide: 5 tips to boost your child's self-esteem

    Parent's Guide: 5 tips to boost your child's self-esteem

  • 5 tips for a responsible parenthood you should know

    5 tips for a responsible parenthood you should know

  • Positive reinforcement parenting: 5 tips and things you should know

    Positive reinforcement parenting: 5 tips and things you should know

  • Parent's Guide: 5 tips to boost your child's self-esteem

    Parent's Guide: 5 tips to boost your child's self-esteem

  • 5 tips for a responsible parenthood you should know

    5 tips for a responsible parenthood you should know

  • Positive reinforcement parenting: 5 tips and things you should know

    Positive reinforcement parenting: 5 tips and things you should know

Get advice on your pregnancy and growing baby. Sign up for our newsletter
  • Pregnancy
    • Baby
    • Breastfeeding & Formula
    • Baby Names
    • Delivery
  • Parenting
    • Parent's Guide
    • Advice for Parenting Kids
    • Relationship & Sex
  • Lifestyle Section
    • Local celebs
    • Celebrities
    • Money
    • News
  • FAMILY & HOME
    • Couples
    • Weekend & Holiday Guide
    • Health
  • Building a BakuNation
    • More
      • TAP Community
      • Advertise With Us
      • Contact Us
      • Become a Contributor


    • Singapore flag Singapore
    • Thailand flag Thailand
    • Indonesia flag Indonesia
    • Philippines flag Philippines
    • Malaysia flag Malaysia
    • Sri-Lanka flag Sri Lanka
    • India flag India
    • Vietnam flag Vietnam
    • Australia flag Australia
    • Japan flag Japan
    • Nigeria flag Nigeria
    • Kenya flag Kenya
    © Copyright theAsianparent 2023. All rights reserved
    About Us|Team|Privacy Policy|Terms of Use |Sitemap HTML
    • Tools
    • Articles
    • Feed
    • Poll

    We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience. Learn MoreOk, Got it

    We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience. Learn MoreOk, Got it

    theAsianparent heart icon
    Nais naming magpadala ng notification sa'yo tungkol sa latest news at update sa pag-aalaga ng baby at kanilang kalusugan.