Skip to content

We have come to see that just as the child must learn to…

“We have come to see that just as the child must learn to love wisely, so he must learn to hate expeditiously, to turn destructive tendencies away from himself toward enemies that actually threaten him rather than toward the friendly and the defenseless, the more usual victims of destructive energy.” quote by Karl A. Menninger
Download Open image
“We have come to see that just as the child must learn to love wisely, so he must learn to hate expeditiously, to turn destructive tendencies away from himself toward enemies that actually threaten him rather than toward the friendly and the defenseless, the more usual victims of destructive energy.”

Karl A. Menninger

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Children must learn to love wisely and hate only those who truly threaten them, not the innocent.

In simple terms: Teach selective love and hate.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate discernment in relationships.

Themes

psychology morality emotional development violence

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

psychological ethical

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • education
  • conflict resolution
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

developmental psychology ethical reasoning aggression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate genuine threats?
  • What teaches children to love responsibly?
A Different Perspective

Over‑generalizing hate can harm relationships.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Karl A. Menninger

Explore all 29 Karl A. Menninger quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,396 Children quotes