Are Single Children Really ‘Spoiled’? Experts Explain ‘Six Pocket Syndrome’

Many people say that single children are spoiled because they get whatever they want and do not learn to share. But is that really true?

Experts say it is not always so. The problem is not having one child, but how that child is raised. A new term is being used to explain this  - Six Pocket Syndrome.

What is Six Pocket Syndrome?

The term Six Pocket Syndrome means that one child is getting care and attention from six adults which are two parents and four grandparents. All of them love the child deeply and want to give the best. Because the child is alone, everyone focuses on them. From buying toys to fulfilling every wish, the child gets all the attention.

This can make the child feel that they can have everything they want. Experts say this is becoming common in families where there is only one child and both parents work. With no brothers or sisters to share with, the child gets used to being the centre of attention.

So, the six pockets refer to the six people spending on one child. Sometimes this can lead to over pampering.

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Are Single Children Always Spoiled?

No. Being an only child does not automatically make someone spoiled. Many single children grow up kind, confident, and independent. What really matters is how the parents and family raise them.

A child becomes spoiled only when they are given everything they want without limits. When adults do not say NO, the child does not learn patience. They don’t learn to handle disappointment.

Signs of Six Pocket Syndrome

• They get angry or upset when told NO.
• They expect adults to agree with them all the time.
• They have trouble sharing toys or space with others.
• They find it hard to deal with failure or losing a game.

The Future Problem

When a child grows up thinking they will always get what they want, they face problems later in life.

In school, they might find it hard to share or work in a group. They might expect friends to always agree with them. At times, they can develop a sense of entitlement which means expecting rewards without effort.

What Can Parents Do?

Say NO sometimes. It’s okay if your child cries or feels upset. It helps them learn patience.

Encourage them to share toys or food with cousins and friends.

Ask them to help with simple chores like putting away toys or helping set the table.

If they lose a game or don’t get top marks, don’t rush to fix it. Teach them how to try again.

All adults in the house should follow the same rules so the child doesn’t get mixed signals.

Children need space to learn and grow. When adults make life too easy, children don’t learn life lessons.

If we balance love and discipline, every child can grow up to be kind and patient, irrespective of whether single or not.