Exploring the cultural myths and practices of lying to children, the chapter delves into the implications and nuances of parenting by deception. From fantastical tales to emotional manipulation, the discussion uncovers the gray area between nurturing imagination and fostering trust through honesty in parenting.
Why do we tell kids that a fairy will give them cash in exchange for their teeth? How should we talk to them about scary things in the world? And is Mike one of the greatest operatic tenors of all time?
- RESOURCES:
- "Parenting by Lying," by Peipei Setoh, Petrina Hui Xian Low, Gail D. Heyman, and Kang Lee (Current Directions in Psychological Science, 2024).
- "Should You Always Tell Your Kids the Truth? It Depends," by Laura Wheatman Hill (CNN, 2021).
- "Parenting by Lying in Childhood Is Associated With Negative Developmental Outcomes in Adulthood," by Peipei Setoh, Siqi Zhao, Rachel Santos, Gail D. Heyman, and Kang Lee (Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, 2020).
- "The Santa Lie," by Melinda Wenner Moyer (2012).