The Science of Praise

One of the most effective ways of improving behavior is through warmth and well-measured praise. This can be as simple as smiling, giving a thumbs-up or a word of encouragement.

 

Praising children’s behavior makes them feel safe and secure. When done the right way it can improve self-esteem, increase motivation and enhance perseverance.

 

Well measured and regular praise improves children’s behavior and can reduce levels of hyper activity and inattention. Neuroimaging studies show that a positive parenting style using praise improves psychological and cognitive development in children.

 

The most effective praise is straightforward, specific and focused on effort, not ability or looks. Studies show that children develop higher self-esteem when their parents treat them warmly, but over exaggerating inflated praise can lower their self-esteem.