Dual Standard

Many individuals are known to give more than they can afford to their own children, often prioritizing their offspring's needs and desires above their financial stability. These parents may send their children to prestigious and expensive schools, purchase the latest gadgets, or invest in costly extracurricular activities, driven by a desire to provide the best opportunities and experiences. This behavior stems from a combination of love, societal pressure, and the belief that such investments will secure their children's future success.

However, the same individuals frequently advocate for more economical options when it comes to the education and upbringing of other people's children. They recommend less expensive schools and budget-friendly alternatives, suggesting that high costs are unnecessary and that quality education and opportunities can be found at a lower price. This discrepancy can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, there is a psychological bias known as "self-serving bias," where people tend to justify their own choices as the best while perceiving others' similar choices as less critical or even extravagant. Parents often view their sacrifices for their children as justified, given the emotional bond and personal investment involved. When considering other families, they may believe that the same level of investment is unwarranted or excessive.

Secondly, the disparity highlights the influence of social and economic factors. People tend to be more acutely aware of their financial limitations and prioritize their resources towards their own family. When giving advice to others, they may advocate for a more frugal approach, aligning with a broader societal norm of prudence and moderation. This dual standard reflects the complex interplay between personal affection, financial prudence, and societal expectations.

Lastly, there's a degree of cognitive dissonance at play. Acknowledging that one's own choices might be excessive can be uncomfortable. By promoting less costly alternatives for others, individuals can rationalize their own decisions as necessary and special, thus reducing any internal conflict about their financial choices.

This phenomenon underscores a broader societal issue where personal biases and economic realities intersect, leading to inconsistent standards in the recommendations for child-rearing practices. It reveals how deeply personal and subjective financial decisions are, especially when it comes to the well-being of one's own children versus others.

Now I am telling the story behind writing about this topic. This kind of thing happened to me and they were no one from far away they were my family members. What I think about my child is a matter of my own mind.

Every parent wants to do the best for their child but I want to do the best within my ability.That's why I don't need to take advice from anyone because I understand my limitations. But when someone comes to advise you unsolicited it is not acceptable because they are doing their best for their child and even unfairly putting pressure on the father and other family members and extorting money just for the better future of the child. And they are the ones who suggest me spend less. I have never reached out to them for help, but I have become a part of their good thinking. Really funny but nothing to do!