Pygmalion Effect
In child psychology, the "Pygmalion Effect" is an important concept, also known as the "Rosenthal Effect" .
This effect originated from the research of psychologist Robert Rosenthal in the 1960s. It has this nickname because he discovered this effect.
It refers to the fact that people's moderate expectations of others will have an impact on their behavior and performance , especially in children and students .
Specifically, when teachers or parents have positive expectations for their children, they tend to work harder to meet those expectations and perform better. Conversely, low expectations or denial may lead to children being limited in their performance , afraid to try new challenges, or feeling unappreciated.
The Pygmalion effect
This effect comes from experiments conducted in the 1960s by psychologists Robert Rosenthal and Lenore Jacobson.
The researchers provided a list of "high potential students" to teachers in an elementary school. In fact, these were just some randomly selected students, who were not so-called "high potential" students , just like other students in the class. And the students on the list did not have particularly outstanding grades at the time, but the teachers had higher expectations for these students.
However, after the experiment, students who were deemed "highly promising" by teachers did make significant progress by the end of the school year.
This study confirms that expectations can shape students' self-confidence and learning motivation . It also confirms the "Pygmalion effect" that emphasizing encouragement and moderate expectations can lead to progress and stimulate potential .
The Pygmalion Effect on Children
Build confidence
When children feel the trust and expectations from their parents or teachers, they will be more motivated to prove themselves .
This positive psychological suggestion will help them overcome difficulties.
Unleash your potential:
Having confidence in children and holding positive expectations for their abilities can make children feel that their potential is recognized, making them more motivated to explore and learn.
Forming a self-concept:
Children's understanding of themselves as they grow up comes largely from the feedback from people around them.
When their efforts are recognized and appropriate expectations are placed on them, they will gradually develop the belief that "I can do it". This belief will accompany them as they grow and affect them throughout their lives.
How can parents and teachers take advantage of the Pygmalion effect?
Avoid the misunderstanding that the higher your expectations, the better your children will be:
The Pygmalion effect tells us that positive expectations for children can promote their development, but the key lies in correct guidance, rather than the "chicken baby" type of coercive education .
The so-called "proper use" of the Pygmalion effect is not to turn high expectations into heavy pressure, but to use trust and encouragement to help children build self-confidence and autonomy . Parents and teachers should focus on the children's hard work and praise their progress, rather than simply pursuing success in results . At the same time, leave room for children to explore and make mistakes , and don't let expectations turn into quick success and instant control.
Gentle encouragement and understanding can help children grow in a safe environment and truly realize their potential. This is the core meaning of the Pygmalion effect. Timely and sincere encouragement and praise for their efforts will let children know that even if the process is difficult, as long as they make efforts, they will grow.
The Pygmalion effect reminds us that moderate expectations have a profound impact on children's growth.
Educators and parents should pay special attention to their words, actions and attitudes when interacting with children. Every word of encouragement and every expectation we give to children will sow seeds in their hearts.
Create a supportive, trusting and encouraging environment in which children can thrive.
Commenti