Every child wants to have a sense of identity, to feel important, and to be accepted. Many times, children will exhibit behaviors to draw attention to what they are doing. When parents give appropriate compliments, children feel good because compliments serve as a response to their desire for recognition and a sense of self-worth. Typically, when a child receives praise for a certain behavior, it triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain, making them feel happy, motivated, and eager to repeat that behavior. This is because praise signifies that others recognize and accept them.

In psychology, praise is considered a form of positive reinforcement. B.F. Skinner, a behavioral psychologist, concluded that human behavior is shaped by interactions with the environment, and behavior can change due to the outcomes or consequences within that environment. He emphasized the importance of praise over criticism. The more praise a person receives, the more it reinforces the positive aspects of their character.

- Praise effort and intention over results: When complimenting a child, it’s better to focus on their effort and intention rather than just the outcome. Praise for effort encourages the child to continue exhibiting positive behaviors. If parents only praise intelligence or talent, children may start to focus solely on their abilities. On days when they struggle to achieve something, they may feel pressured or anxious about their abilities. However, praising their efforts teaches them that their abilities can improve, and on tough days, they will continue trying to improve.

- Praise when it’s deserved, not casually: Compliments should be clear and specific, acknowledging a child’s actions in a meaningful way. Praise should be aimed at helping them grow, not just maintaining a good relationship. Parents should offer sincere and direct compliments about specific actions. Vague or insincere praise may lead children to feel that their parents aren't paying attention or are not being truthful, which can lead to self-doubt and a lack of trust in their parents' words.

- Praise the child’s character traits: Psychological studies have shown that when children are praised for their character traits, they are more likely to accept those traits as part of their identity. For example, in an experiment by Joan Grusec, children were either praised for their behavior (sharing with a friend) or praised for their character (being helpful and generous). Children who were praised for their helpfulness were more likely to exhibit those traits in the future. If parents want to encourage a particular trait in their child, they should praise it, as this reinforces that behavior and encourages the child to continue exhibiting it.

As we can see, everyone loves to be praised, and children are no exception. If parents know how to give compliments that are appropriate for their child, it will boost the child’s sense of self-worth and confidence.