Are modern kids growing up too pampered? 

October 17, 2025

When 10-year-old Ishit Bhatt appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati 17, his confidence caught the audience’s attention. But what followed was a storm of criticism. Many viewers found the young contestant from Gujarat “overconfident”, “rude”, and “arrogant”, calling him “the most hated kid on the internet.” Clips from the show quickly went viral, with social media users praising host Amitabh Bachchan’s composure and questioning what led to the child’s attitude.

The debate has since grown beyond one television appearance. Psychologists say Ishit’s behaviour reflects a broader pattern seen in many urban families today — what experts call the “six pocket syndrome.”

What is the six pocket syndrome?

The term “six pocket syndrome” originated in China, where the one-child policy created families with six adults — two parents and four grandparents — focusing all their affection, attention, and resources on one child. Over time, the expression came to describe children who grow up surrounded by excessive indulgence, often without boundaries.

Dr Paramjeet Singh, Parenting Coach and Consultant Psychiatrist at Delhi’s PSRI Hospital, explains that the six pockets represent six streams of constant gratification: food, toys, attention, praise, gadgets, and affection. “Each adult pours their love and resources into the child,” he says, “but the unintended result is a child who becomes overly dependent on external validation.”

According to Dr Zirak Marker, Chief Medical Advisor and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Mpower, this overindulgence, though rooted in love, can harm emotional growth. “It may inhibit the ability to tolerate frustration or develop self-regulation,” he says. “The child learns to expect immediate gratification and struggles when reality doesn’t meet those expectations.”

Experts say that with smaller families, working parents, and financially stable grandparents, the same pattern has become common in Indian households today. Parents compensate for their absence or guilt with gifts, praise, and leniency, unintentionally reinforcing entitlement and impatience.

How does it show up?

Children affected by six pocket syndrome often exhibit certain behavioural traits early on. They tend to rely heavily on adults, have low tolerance for rejection or criticism, and find it difficult to share or cooperate with others. When denied something, they may throw tantrums, manipulate situations, or demand attention.

A report by The Indian Express notes that when such children encounter real-world challenges — such as competition in school or criticism from peers — they often feel frustrated and helpless. Without having learned how to cope with limits or disappointment, they may experience resentment toward their parents or develop anxiety.

Over time, these traits can affect social relationships. Some children may struggle to form friendships or collaborate, while others may display aggression, withdrawal, or dependency on digital entertainment and social media. Psychologists warn that left unaddressed, such tendencies can extend into adulthood, leading to poor emotional regulation and difficulty managing setbacks.

How can parents help?

Counselling psychologist Richa Aggarwal, consultant at Yatharth Hospital Model Town, New Delhi, says balance is key. “Raising emotionally strong children requires love with limits,” she explains. “Parents must set boundaries and maintain them consistently.”

She recommends restricting overindulgence in areas like screen time, pocket money, or material rewards. Clear rules help children understand that affection is unconditional but privileges must be earned.

Giving children small, age-appropriate responsibilities — such as organizing their school bag, helping with chores, or managing simple errands — can build independence and problem-solving skills. Encouraging them to participate in group activities or sports also helps develop empathy and cooperation.

Dr Aggarwal also highlights the importance of teaching basic financial habits early. Allowing children to handle small amounts of money for saving or spending helps them appreciate value and limits.

Equally important, experts say, is parental modeling. Children observe how adults respond to stress, anger, or disappointment. Staying calm in front of them teaches emotional control more effectively than lectures.

Lastly, psychologists advise parents to praise effort rather than results. Celebrating persistence, patience, and learning — instead of only achievements — fosters resilience and intrinsic motivation.

The takeaway

The case of Ishit Bhatt has reignited discussion on modern parenting and the impact of overindulgence. Experts agree that while affection and encouragement are vital, unrestrained pampering can hinder a child’s emotional maturity.

In an age where attention and rewards come easily, setting healthy boundaries and nurturing self-discipline are becoming essential skills. As Dr Singh puts it, “Children who learn to wait, to work for what they want, and to accept ‘no’ gracefully grow into confident and compassionate adults. Love must always come with structure.”