The concept of the 'Six-Pocket Syndrome' and how excessive pampering of children might have made them overconfident and yet under-prepared for the world. Recently, a young contestant appeared on an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati who was brilliant in giving quick answers, but it was overshadowed by his tone.
The boy was involved in an act of arrogance where he interrupted Amitabh Bachchan when he began explaining the rules by saying, "I know the rules, you don't have to tell me." This was followed by a flood of reactions on social media. While some praised his assertiveness, the incident sparked a deeper question of whether Indian parents are confusing empowerment with entitlement. The child’s behaviour holds a mirror to a modern paradox that is raising children who are articulate and bright, yet struggle with basic social competence.
The 'Six-Pocket Syndrome'
The term 'Six-Pocket Syndrome' was born in China during the one-child policy era. It refers to a child who effectively had six adults, two parents and four grandparents who focused all emotional and financial resources on them. This overfocus often led to a generation of little emperors who are not equipped enough to handle criticism or failure. While India does not have the same policy, the rising financial comfort, smaller families, and over-aspirational parenting have created similar conditions. Unconditional support can easily turn into blind pampering that would lead a child to internalise a distorted self-perception where they believe they are always right, special and always in control.
The entitlement paradox
"I know the rules" of the KBC child demonstrated not just confidence but also a lack of humility and social regulation, which is something schools have increasingly reported among bright students. This entitlement, when unchecked, doesn't just affect behaviour but also stunts personal growth. According to developmental psychology, it shows that children who rarely confront frustration often experience higher anxiety and lower endurance in adulthood. They may granulate under pressure because they were protected from the discomfort and need to become resilient. Education experts suggest that the should be to balance between confidence and teaching children that wisdom is found in listening deeply and failing with grace.
Less affection is not the solution, but more structure and accountability are. The balanced approach is crucial for developing strong coping mechanisms and social adaptability. According to an India Today report, Parenting coach Shaheen D’Lima advises, "Children who are taught 'no' early in life often hear more 'yes' from the world later". The debate surrounding the KBC contestant forces a national reflection on modern parenting. The challenge is to raise children who value emotional intelligence and resilience as much as academic brilliance.