Does Praise teach Better than Criticism?

Praise teaches better than criticism.
Describe a specific situation in which praise might not teach better than criticism. Discuss what you think determines whether praise or criticism teaches better.
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News articles have brought attention to certain characteristics of American children growing up in the 1980s and 1990s. Namely, they have been described as coddled and self-absorbed--unable to take criticism, not so resilient during hard times and perhaps more susceptible to depression and drug abuse. These characteristics have often been partly attributed to a cultural focus on raising self esteem in classrooms and recognizing the "uniqueness" of each child. Indeed, praise can prove effective in reinforcing positive behavior; however, children need constructive criticism in order to understand the true nature of their abilities and also build "thicker" skin to withstand challenging situations.

Praise has the effect of encouraging people to pursue endeavors they believe they excel in. Praise often helps release a burst of energy in people--motivating them to continue deserving the positive words lavished on them. In reality, no one enjoys having their faults pointed out but most everyone appreciates genuine positive reinforcement. Especially for people (e.g., the 1980s/1990s children) not accustomed to criticism, praise often is more effective in maintaining positive behavior. The praise, however, must be genuine and not given solely for the sake of raising self esteem. One given underserved praise will eventually become disillusioned and upset upon learning how his abilities really fair against others.

Criticism may teach better if given in a constructive manner. The way to give criticism is sort of an art that most people have not mastered. The criticism, for instance, should not directly strike at the ego but should be worded in a way that is sensitive and encourages positive change in a person. Criticism given in the wrong manner may ruin relationships of trust and even cause the receiver to act out in perverse ways. This art of giving constructive criticism grew out of the movement to raise self esteem in 1980s/1990s school children; however, many parents and teachers felt too protective of the children's feelings and failed to give out useful criticism to assist them in entering the harsh real world.

Praise often teaches better than criticism in that people readily receive positive words. Especially if unaccustomed to criticism, people will often shut down when they feel personally attacked. Indeed, a dose of criticism is necessary of everyone to gain perspective on their abilities and behavior. Too much praise and no criticism encourages over-inflated egos and an inability to handle challenges in life.