Reverse psychology usually works very well with children. In colloquial language, reverse psychology It is a suitable technique to get the child to carry out a specific action based on a message with the aim that he does the opposite.
Reverse psychology shows a behavioral technique that it tries to influence in a positive way the behavior of another person, however, raises some ethical debate insofar as it is a form of manipulation. Reverse psychology is a behavioral technique used by Victor Frankl (founder of Logotherapy).
It's about making the child believe that you love do something you don't really want. For example, between two alternatives A and B, if as a parent you want your child to do option B, then you will tell him that you want him to do option A.
In that case, you have to stick with your decision. The will usually feels a certain rejection of what is imposed, hence the interlocutor tends to want to do the opposite of what has been ordered. Reverse psychology does not always work at a general level, it works more effectively against those
It is advisable not to abuse the use of reverse psychology because used in excess can produce self esteem issues in the child and lack of self-confidence. In addition, it is essential to respect children's freedom. Parents apply reverse psychology in very simple situations of daily routine.
For example, when the child says that he does not want to eat more at mealtime and at that moment, the father says that then the plate is taken by him. At that moment, the child reacts by saying that he loves it.
This article is merely informative, in Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
