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Childhood Quote by Henry Home, Lord Kames

“An infallible way to make your child miserable is to satisfy all his demands. Passion swells by gratification; and the impossibility of satisfying every one of his demands will oblige you to stop short at last, after he has become a little headstrong.” quote by Henry Home, Lord Kames
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“An infallible way to make your child miserable is to satisfy all his demands. Passion swells by gratification; and the impossibility of satisfying every one of his demands will oblige you to stop short at last, after he has become a little headstrong.”

Henry Home, Lord Kames

About This Quote

Source Book: Essays on the Principles of Morality and Politics, 1760

Demanding a child's every wish creates entitlement, leading to frustration and defiance when limits are finally imposed.

In simple terms: Always giving in makes kids resistant when you stop.

Key Takeaway

Set healthy boundaries early.

Themes

parenting discipline entitlement

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • parent‑child relationships
  • education
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

psychology behavioral conditioning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance nurturing and discipline?
  • What long‑term effects does overindulgence have?
A Different Perspective

Limits must be consistent and age‑appropriate, or they may cause rebellion.

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