Authentic Pride Definition

What a joy when parents see their children accomplishing something they worked really hard. It is natural to say, “I am very proud of you!”, and we know the feeling when someone says it to us. The words “I am proud of you” imply that parents, relatives or friends recognize and approve the child’s achievement and success. When those words are expressed with a sincere feeling of love and joy showing appreciation for someone’s hard work and achievement, they are positive and have an encouraging effect. The danger and negative side of it, is when pride goes beyond congratulating words and is nurtured in children’s heart by making them feel superior. This kind of pride is referred to Hubristic, which comes from the Greek word hubris, meaning extreme pride or arrogance, and were related to actions that shamed and humiliated the victim for the pleasure or gratification of the abuser.

When a child is too proud and feels superior to others, he is being judgmental and not looking at his own limitations and weaknesses. C.S. Lewis, a famous author and scholar, once said, “A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and, of course, as long as you're looking down, you can't see something that's above you.” A child, who becomes arrogant, has a strong sense of self importance and believes that he deserves special treatment. Also, he likes to brag about his talents and accomplishments. This type of behavior affects his relationship with other children who may feel inferior or annoyed with his sense of superiority. As a result, children will avoid playing or hanging out with him. Many of us, adults, have experienced how irritating it can be being around a braggart or a know-it-all for too