The Fallacy of Self Esteem Programs in School

The second biggest movement in schools next to No Child Left Behind is Self Esteem Programs. Self-esteem programs in schools are designed to make children feel good about themselves, or not feeling bad about themselves. It sounds like a great thing, doesn't it? Self-esteem for schoolchildren is indeed a wonderful thing, that is, until adults get involved. Then it gets ridiculous.

The National Association for Self-Esteem, a group that works to integrate "self esteem into the fabric of our society", says that "some of the confusion over the term self-esteem has stemmed from programs and strategies used that were not grounded in sound research. Such strategies include heaping children with undeserved praise not based on accomplishment."

Still schools keep making halfhearted attempts at building students self-esteem. Giving everyone a trophy does not raise self-esteem. Eliminating tag because someone must be 'it' does not raise self-esteem. Now allowing schools to celebrate mother's day so that children a without mother (for whatever reason) does not raise self-esteem. Making 'do not tease' lists that actually singles out venerable kids, is not only stupid, but does nothing to raise self-esteem. Making students wear uniforms that make everyone feel silly so a minority do not feel self-conscious about their clothes, doe not raise self-esteem.

happy child

Credit: dreahwrites

Copyright: dreahwrites