What if your child starts acting like they’re better than everyone else — looking down on others, constantly bragging, or even putting other kids down?
Why does this happen? Is it simply part of their personality — something you can’t change? Or could it be that your child is just lacking parental attention and love — and it can be corrected? Let’s take a closer look at the real reasons behind such behavior.
Children’s Self-Esteem
At a certain age, many children begin to act in confusing ways. Some try too hard to be perfect. Others start showing off and belittling others at every opportunity.
This kind of behavior is often rooted in a lack of attention and praise from parents. Children crave connection with their loved ones, and sometimes even negative behavior becomes the only way to get noticed. A child’s self-esteem is shaped primarily by their parents.
It’s not enough to simply tell your child you love them — they need to feel it through your actions. That means trusting them, involving them in family decisions, and showing genuine respect.
Surprisingly, when a child brags or acts superior, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have high self-esteem. In fact, it’s often a sign of deep insecurity. The child tries to boost their self-worth by putting others down.
Arrogance can also grow from too much permissiveness. When parents give in to every demand and buy everything the child asks for, it may seem like love — but emotional connection is missing. Children don’t really need expensive gadgets or branded clothes. What they truly need is their parents’ time, affection, and interest in their inner world.
Modern parenting is full of trends. Some believe that giving children total freedom is the best way to raise independence and responsibility.
But taken too far, that freedom can leave a child feeling completely alone in the world — and when they feel unprotected, they defend themselves the only way they know how: through aggression or arrogance.
Signs and Consequences of “Star Syndrome”
If your child talks about new toys or recent trips, that’s not a reason to panic. Simply explain that not everyone needs to know about your family’s private life.
However, it’s time to take notice when your child’s stories start crossing other people’s boundaries — when they begin to mock or look down on those who have less. And if the behavior escalates into bullying or even physical aggression, that’s a serious red flag.
Unchecked, this behavior can have long-term consequences. It may become a lifelong pattern that damages relationships and social skills. It’s good for a person to be confident — but not at the expense of others.
Some parents believe there’s nothing wrong with this attitude: “At least my child knows their worth.” Especially if the child used to be shy. But extremes in any direction — whether low or inflated self-esteem — are harmful.
How to Correct a Child’s Behavior
Everything starts with the parents. From the moment a child is born, it’s the parents who shape their sense of self-worth. This remains crucial throughout childhood, and especially during the teenage years — when children are most vulnerable and critical of themselves.
A confident, emotionally healthy person never needs to prove their worth by demeaning others. That idea simply doesn’t occur to them.
That’s why parents should give praise, allow self-expression, and show consistent emotional support. At the same time, it’s essential to respect the child’s boundaries and personal space.
Psychologist Elena Zharkova emphasizesthat parents must pay attention to their own behavior. Even small comments or dismissive reactions can leave lasting damage on a child’s self-esteem. And if you notice your child deliberately causing emotional or physical harm to others, that’s a clear sign it’s time to seek professional help.
The most important thing for parents is to encourage, support, and celebrate every small success from early childhood. Give your child room to express themselves — and always be ready to stand by them, no matter what.
