The psychological characteristics of man have always been of interest to scientists and have been the subject of numerous studies. One of the strong factors affecting a person’s personality and his relationship with others is egocentrism. What is this feature, what impact does it have, how to overcome it? The answers to these questions will be curious to everyone who is interested in psychology and self.
Egocentrism is considered a feature of the human psyche, in which he cannot and does not want to take someone else's point of view and put himself in the place of the opponent. The self-centrist refuses to accept the fact that other people have the right to their own opinion, and believes that only he is right. The egocentrism of children's thinking is a natural phenomenon for kids 5-10 years old. Numerous experiments conducted with children of this age prove their inability to look at the world from another perspective, to imagine what the object looks like from this opposite side. But most often this feature remains at a more mature age. In many families and in relationships between people, egocentrism is becoming a normal phenomenon. What does it mean? A person is focused on himself, insensitive to others and perceives everything through the prism of his own opinion.
People suffering from egocentrism feel as if in the center of this world, they believe that everything revolves around them and their interests. Most often, the reason for this is the upbringing and indulgence of all the vagaries of a person from childhood. From infancy, the child gets used to the increased attention from adults and especially parents. Gradually, he realizes that there are certain ways in which you can influence adults and make them fulfill all desires. With age, this feature does not pass, but becomes even stronger. The need for attention goes beyond home and parental love. The child wants to be the center of attention in kindergarten or school, in the yard and in company. Gradually, these needs develop into a peculiar form of self-affirmation, in which even love implies possessiveness, complete mastery of man. This is how egocentrism is born. What does this mean for a person’s future life? The lack of spiritual development and cruelty towards other people, the inability to establish sincere relationships based on mutual understanding and love.
Overcoming egocentrism begins with a person's awareness of the presence of a problem and the desire to overcome it. The ability to understand that all people are different, everyone has their own point of view and the right to uphold their own interests, is not easy. But this is a step in the right direction. Many families, couples and partners thus maintained their relationship, which was approaching an inevitable collapse due to a lack of understanding and a desire to look at the situation from the other side.
Proper parenting can prevent self-centeredness. What does this mean in terms of the modern view on parenting? In a world of great opportunities and permissiveness, it is important for parents to convey to the child the value of trusting relationships between people based on generosity and understanding.