Reevaluating Creative Entitlement in Parenting

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In a thought-provoking examination of entitlement, researchers conducted a study revealing that while entitled individuals often exhibit selfish behaviors—such as being less likely to apologize or complain when things do not go their way—there is an intriguing positive aspect to this trait. Emily Zitek from Cornell University and Lynne Vincent from Vanderbilt University identified that entitled individuals tend to value their uniqueness, a quality that can enhance creativity.

Their experiments differentiated between two types of entitlement: a stable personality trait and a fluctuating psychological state. They found that a temporary increase in entitlement, or “state entitlement,” was linked to improved creativity. For instance, participants who were encouraged to consider reasons they deserve the best in life performed better in tasks requiring creative thinking, such as generating diverse uses for a paperclip and illustrating an alien from an unconventional planet. These individuals not only produced more ideas but also exhibited greater originality in their responses.

While the term “entitlement” often carries a negative connotation, particularly in creative fields, it is essential to recognize that a belief in one’s own worth and the validity of one’s work can be beneficial. This notion often clashes with the pervasive stereotype of the “starving artist,” where many creators feel pressured to remain humble and grateful for any acknowledgment of their work.

A recent episode involving author Clara Johnson highlighted this disconnect. Johnson expressed her frustration on social media about her book not being included in a prestigious list of notable works, declaring her belief in the quality of her writing. Though her reaction drew criticism, it also resonated with many in the creative community who grapple with self-doubt and the desire for validation.

Elizabeth Turner, an author exploring the theme of creativity, articulates this balance well. She asserts that creative entitlement does not mean expecting the world to owe you anything; instead, it is about acknowledging your right to express yourself and share your vision. This aligns with the idea that confidence—rooted in self-trust—is vital for creativity.

The takeaway from these findings suggests that creators should nurture a mindset that embraces their worth. Before embarking on creative endeavors, they might benefit from reflecting on their entitlements, akin to the study participants. This could foster a more profound sense of assurance in their capabilities and contributions.

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In summary, while entitlement is often viewed negatively, a nuanced understanding reveals that a healthy belief in one’s own worth can enhance creativity. Creators should embrace this mindset to foster confidence in their artistic endeavors.