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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Kindness

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James Wellborn

def. (noun) benevolent, considerate and helpful Kindness, particularly in the form of altruism, does a person good; so much so that it appears to be hard wired into our system.  People who are mean and selfish are likely to be shunned; those who are kind, considerate and helpful are liked and valued.  Acts of kindness reduce stress, increase the release …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Honor, Pt 2

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

Teach it.  While research suggests that people have a natural tendency to be fair, there are also lots of experiences (and cultural messages) that encourage kids to think only of themselves.  There are a number of qualities that underlie a sense of Honor. Define honor.  Honorable people treat others fairly.  Fair, just, equitable, right, good sport; these are a few …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Honor, Pt 1

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

def: (noun) fair and respects the rights of others One of the primary ways that societies regulate the behavior of their fellow citizens has been through an emphasis on honor; upholding it, defending it, living with it.  In many considerations, honor represents the whole collection of Character-istics, similar to Character and integrity.  However, in this column, honor represents a specific …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Honesty, pt 1

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

def. (noun) sincere, frank, genuine, truthful In addition to learning how to behave appropriately in different social situations, establish a foundation for future employment, and develop meaningful close relationships, teens also need to create a foundation of universal moral principles to guide decision making throughout their lives.  Honesty is one of these fundamental values. Honest people are sincere, frank, genuine, …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Generosity (cont.)

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

Teach it.  Generosity needs to be taught.  There are a number of skills that lead to generosity.  Manners are an important form of generosity.  Good manners are about being considerate, patient, tolerant and generous.  Opening doors for others, giving up your seat to someone older or physically challenged, waiting for everyone to be served before beginning to eat and politeness …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Courage, pt 2

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

Notice it.  What you characterize as courageous is important.  Who you consider to be heroic is important.  Again, while heroism is the easiest to spot it is the least relevant to helping your kid be courageous in their everyday life.  Heroism is rare by definition.  Courage is all around you.  It is on the news.  It is in your house.  …

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Fostering Character Development in Teens: Courage, part 1

In There's a Stranger in My House by Dr James WellbornLeave a Comment

def: (noun) continues to pursue what is right regardless of threat, difficulty, danger, or pain Courage is one of the more dramatic Character-istics.  One form, heroism, is immediately recognized by others.  These are the instances of rescue and protection and sacrifice that rise above the normal events of our lives.  While heroism is admirable, it is not achievable by most …