ADVICE RATING |
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Swear Words |
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by ellamia  (May 2008) (rank 55th) |
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Sadly, as kids explore language, it is normal for them to learn the good things along with the bad. When they break out of the swear words its most likely they're trying to express their emotions such as anger, fear or frustration (just like many adults!)
According to research
swear words are some of the most powerful English words. When children hear someone using a swear word they might not understand its meaning, but they understand its emotional attachment. The child might not have the right words to describe how they feel in a more sophisticated way, so using swear words is a lot easier for them.
It may go against your instincts but punishing your child when he or she uses inappropriate language isn't the best way to deal with the problem. You need to consider why he or she is swearing. Are they expressing an emotion or just being playful or maybe even copying you because you may of said it. If it is playfulness simply say "we dont talk like that in this house". If the words are used in an abusive way, don't react to them. Try finding out what is upsetting your child and talk about the swear words when your child is a little calmer.
Whether you explain the meaning of the word will depend on the individual parent and whether you think it will encourage him or her to re-use that word. A big reaction to bad language may also prolong the language of swearing. Children explore different behaviours and depending on the response they get, they increase or decrease the use of their behaviours.
I hope this has helped some parents.
Kelly Barratt
