All participation trophies did for Gen X was make us cynical, not entitled.
I wonder if part of the reason we catastrophize so much is that we (in the west) don't have many of the real worries our ancestors did. So our tolerance for pain and discomfort has shrunk. And catastrophizing gives our life meaning; we can cast ourselves as victim…
All participation trophies did for Gen X was make us cynical, not entitled.
I wonder if part of the reason we catastrophize so much is that we (in the west) don't have many of the real worries our ancestors did. So our tolerance for pain and discomfort has shrunk. And catastrophizing gives our life meaning; we can cast ourselves as victims of whatever oppressive power suggested we smile, or complimented our hair, or didn't say "Merry Christmas." And then comes the fun part: outrage!
Boys like having a chance to win. "So your saying there's a chance" - Jim Carey, Dumb and Dumber
When everyone is a winner just or showing up, it really means that nobody can win and that bores many boys. They are constantly told to not seek winning. Girls are thrilled to fit in, but this is not the same motivator for many boys.
All participation trophies did for Gen X was make us cynical, not entitled.
I wonder if part of the reason we catastrophize so much is that we (in the west) don't have many of the real worries our ancestors did. So our tolerance for pain and discomfort has shrunk. And catastrophizing gives our life meaning; we can cast ourselves as victims of whatever oppressive power suggested we smile, or complimented our hair, or didn't say "Merry Christmas." And then comes the fun part: outrage!
Boys like having a chance to win. "So your saying there's a chance" - Jim Carey, Dumb and Dumber
When everyone is a winner just or showing up, it really means that nobody can win and that bores many boys. They are constantly told to not seek winning. Girls are thrilled to fit in, but this is not the same motivator for many boys.
I don't think I tied my comment in to yours very well, so I hope the connection of trying to win and earning respect is possible to imagine.