ASK Dr Devi Raj
SELF-ESTEEM AND CONFIDENCE :
10 Questions Parents Ask
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
Dr. Devi Raj is a Developmental Psychologist, Certified Life Coach and Child Behaviour Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. At Pranaah Psychological Counselling Centre, she provides evidence-based psychological assessments, parenting guidance, developmental interventions, and emotional wellbeing services for families across Kollam, Karunagappally, Kerala, and through online consultations worldwide.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for general educational information and does not replace individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency care.
SELF-ESTEEM AND CONFIDENCE: 10 Questions Parents Ask
“Ask Dr. Devi Raj” is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
The answers are educational and should not be used as a substitute for individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency support.
Why does my child say “I can't do anything”?
Repeated failure, criticism, comparison or perfectionism can contribute to low confidence.
How can parents build self-esteem?
Notice effort, competence, kindness, persistence and improvement rather than praising only achievement.
Can too much praise be harmful?
Vague or exaggerated praise can feel unrealistic. Specific and sincere encouragement is more useful.
Why does my child compare themselves with others?
Comparison is common, especially during school years and adolescence. Social media can intensify it.
Should parents tell a child they are the best?
It is healthier to emphasise growth and personal strengths rather than superiority over others.
Why is my child afraid to try new things?
Fear of mistakes, anxiety or repeated criticism can reduce willingness to experiment.
How can I help a perfectionist child?
Normalise mistakes, model flexibility and praise learning rather than flawless performance.
Why does my child give up easily?
Low frustration tolerance, fear of failure or tasks that feel too difficult may be contributing.
Can bullying affect confidence?
Yes. Repeated humiliation or exclusion can deeply affect self-worth.
How can parents encourage independence?
Give children age-appropriate responsibility, allow manageable mistakes and resist solving every problem for them.