Expert Insights: Helping Kids Overcome People-Pleasing Tendencies

September 30, 2025 - 18:29

Child psychologist Becky Kennedy, renowned for her "Good Inside" parenting podcast, emphasizes the importance of addressing people-pleasing behaviors in children to prevent future unhappiness. According to Kennedy, children who habitually prioritize others' needs over their own may struggle with self-esteem and personal fulfillment as adults.

To combat this issue, she suggests three effective strategies for parents. First, encourage children to express their feelings openly. Validating their emotions allows kids to understand that their needs are just as important as those of others. Second, teach them the value of setting boundaries. By learning to say "no" when necessary, children can protect their own well-being and develop a sense of autonomy. Lastly, model healthy behavior. Parents should demonstrate how to prioritize self-care and assertiveness, providing a blueprint for their children to follow.

By implementing these strategies, parents can help cultivate a generation of confident, self-aware individuals who prioritize their own happiness alongside the needs of others.