Overcoming Inferiority Complex in Children
By Hrishita Himalika
“He was a simple man who had no inferiority complex about his lack of education, and even more amazing no superiority complex because he had succeeded despite that lack.” ― Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. this quote is apt as the phrase “inferiority complex” holds in the world we are living in. This has taken a tremendous turn in the 21st century and the effect of it has shaken everyone.
A real or imagined sense of inferiority can cause feelings of insecurity, low self-worth, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence, all symptoms of an inferiority complex. It denotes persistently low self-esteem, in other words. We often observe this in everyone with whom we have come across in our lives but the most affected ones are the children. Sometimes you would notice that they refuse to interact with peers, avoid extracurricular activities and/or sports and display feelings of self-pity. They would tend to avoid making eye contact and walk with slouched shoulders. These are all the signs of children feeling low esteem.
What are the causes behind it?
· Early childhood experiences: Negative experiences during early childhood, such as harsh criticism, neglect, abuse, or constant comparison with siblings or peers, can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem. These experiences can create a belief system that they are inherently flawed or inadequate, leading to feelings of inferiority.
· Parental factors: These play a key role in how children develop inferiority complexes. This includes persistent parental disapproval, reproach, and criticism. Comparing oneself to siblings frequently intensifies feelings of inferiority.
· Peer comparisons and social pressures: Children often compare themselves to their peers, and when they perceive themselves as falling short in some way, it can lead to feelings of inferiority. Peer pressure to conform to certain societal or cultural standards can also contribute to an inferiority complex.
· Physical difficulties: Children who have trouble speaking, hearing, or seeing, physical disabilities or congenital defects, being underweight or overweight, or who are unusually short or tall for their age, may start to feel inferior to other kids.
· Academic performance: Kenyan children’s success is frequently gauged by how well they perform in school. Children who struggle in school frequently believe that those who succeed are superior to them.
· Economic standing of the family: Society unfairly elevates the wealthy at the expense of the less fortunate. Unfortunately, this affects our kids, and it’s not uncommon for kids from lower-income families to feel inferior to other kids.
· Gender: Unfortunately, children are raised to believe that girls are less valuable than boys in some communities. Religious or racial prejudice can cause your child to develop an inferiority complex.
· Illness, whether physical or mental: Children who are frequently ill or are known to have mental health issues may feel inferior to their healthier friends.
Low self-esteem or an inferiority complex can have an impact on how a child views himself and his relationships with others. The effects of an inferiority complex are numerous if undetected and untreated, including shyness or isolation, low self-esteem, despair, submissiveness, and a compromising attitude. In extreme situations, it can drive someone to the point of complete hopelessness, which can result in suicidal thoughts and actions. So, it’s time to learn how to increase a child’s self-esteem.
Preventing inferiority complexes in children involves creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes healthy self-esteem and positive self-image. Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Encourage a positive and supportive atmosphere: Provide children with love, acceptance, and emotional support. Foster an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as failures. Celebrate their achievements and efforts, no matter how small, to reinforce a sense of self-worth.
2. Avoid constant comparisons: Avoid constantly comparing children to their siblings, peers, or unrealistic standards. Instead, focus on individual strengths and encourage children to develop their unique talents and abilities. Emphasize that each person has their journey and that success comes in different forms.
3. Promote a growth mindset: Encourage children to adopt a growth mindset, which focuses on effort, perseverance, and learning from mistakes. Teach them that abilities can be developed and improved through practice and hard work. This mindset helps children see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as indicators of their worth.
4. Provide opportunities for success: Engage children in activities where they can experience success and develop a sense of competence. Encourage them to pursue their interests, hobbies, and passions. Offer them opportunities to explore their talents, whether through sports, arts, academics, or other activities.
5. Foster positive social interactions: Encourage healthy social interactions and friendships. Teach children empathy, kindness, and inclusivity. Create opportunities for teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration, which can build their social skills and self-confidence.
6. Promote a healthy body image: Encourage a positive body image by focusing on health, well-being, and self-care rather than on appearance alone. Teach children to appreciate and respect their bodies and to value themselves for who they are, emphasizing their unique qualities and strengths.
7. Teach resilience and coping skills: Help children develop resilience and effective coping skills to navigate challenges and setbacks. Teach problem-solving techniques, stress management strategies, and emotional regulation skills. Provide them with tools to handle criticism, manage failures, and bounce back from setbacks.
8. Open communication and active listening: Create an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Practice active listening, empathy, and validation to understand their experiences and provide emotional support.
9. Seek professional help if needed: If a child shows persistent signs of low self-esteem, chronic feelings of inferiority, or significant distress, it may be helpful to seek assistance from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance, counselling, and support tailored to the child’s needs.
Other than these certain organisations can contribute to reducing this inferiority complex in children and help them grow as better individuals.
NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) can play a crucial role in helping to prevent and address inferiority complexes in children. Here are some ways NGOs can contribute:
1. Educational programs: NGOs can develop and implement educational programs that focus on building self-esteem, promoting positive self-image, and teaching children important life skills. These programs can include workshops, seminars, and interactive activities that encourage children to recognize their strengths and develop a sense of self-worth. A very realistic example can be Pehchaan- The Street School, which undeniably has worked for building self-esteem and self-worth in children. Through its impartial education, it has helped in boosting the confidence of the children who were having such inferior thoughts and aided them in coming out of the cage they were living in.
2. Mentoring and counselling: NGOs can provide mentoring and counselling services to children who are experiencing feelings of inferiority. Trained mentors and counsellors can work closely with children, offering guidance, support, and a safe space to express their emotions. Through one-on-one sessions or group activities, children can develop coping strategies, learn problem-solving skills, and build resilience. At Pehchaan- The Street School, a safe space is a need that is provided to all the children. Support and guidance are the pillars of growth that Pehchaan- The Street School highly affirms to.
3. Skill-building activities: NGOs can organize skill-building activities that focus on developing children’s talents and abilities. By providing opportunities for children to excel in areas such as sports, arts, music, or other hobbies, NGOs can help children build confidence and a sense of accomplishment. At Pehchaan- The Street School, education isn’t the only sole factor that focused on confidence and belief but it also involves empowering them with much-needed skills. They feel accomplished and self-assured when they are open to a plethora of skills.
4. Community involvement: NGOs can engage the local community in programs aimed at preventing inferiority complexes in children. This can involve organizing community events, parent workshops, or awareness campaigns to promote positive parenting practices, create inclusive environments, and reduce the social stigma surrounding mental health issues.
5. Collaborations with schools: NGOs can collaborate with schools to implement programs that address self-esteem and emotional well-being. This can include training teachers on identifying and supporting children who may be struggling with feelings of inferiority.
6. Advocacy and policy influence: NGOs can advocate for policies and initiatives that prioritize children’s mental health and well-being within the community and at the government level. By raising awareness about the impact of the inferiority complex on children’s development, NGOs can push for resources, support systems, and policies that promote positive self-image and emotional well-being.
Considering all these points, we must ensure that the inferiority complex should not take a toll on the children. They should learn the art of self-belief and the mantra that “they can do anything”. Nothing can act as a barrier to their goals and thoughts. They are the birds that are meant to fly high up in the sky, not to be shackled and caged in the dark.