The Impact of the Contrast Principle on Children's Perception

The contrast principle states that when two things are presented one after the other, the second appears greater than the first. For children, this means that if you offer them two options, they will always choose the second one, thinking it is better. It's essential to understand that children's perception of the world is still developing, and they rely on their environment to shape their minds. As parents, we have the power to influence our children positively or negatively. Thus, we must be mindful of the choices we make and the impact they have on our children.

Children under the age of 6 are more susceptible to the contrast principle because their minds are still developing. They have no prior knowledge or experience to compare things, so they rely solely on what is presented to them. For example, if you show a child two apples, one bigger than the other, they will choose the bigger one, thinking it is better. It is essential to offer children a variety of options and not just limit them to the best or worst option.

The contrast principle can also affect children's self-esteem and confidence. Children who are always compared to others may feel inferior, affecting their mental health and well-being. As parents, we should focus on our children's strengths and not compare them to others. This will help build their self-esteem and confidence as they grow older.

One area where the contrast principle is prevalent for children is in the media. Children are exposed to various media platforms from an early age, and they can be bombarded with unrealistic images and portrayals. This can affect their perception of beauty, self-worth, and overall perception of the world. As parents, we should limit our children's exposure to media platforms and emphasize positive influences such as books and outdoor activities.

Another area where parents can positively impact their children's perception through the contrast principle is while shopping. Children are often influenced by their parents while shopping, and this is a great opportunity to teach them about making informed decisions. Instead of selecting the expensive items first, show them the different options available and let them choose what they like best. This will help them learn to make informed decisions and stand by them.



In conclusion, the contrast principle's impact on children's perception cannot be underestimated. As parents, we have the power to influence our children positively or negatively, and it's essential to be mindful of our choices. By offering children different options and not only the best or worst, but we can also help them develop a well-rounded perception. We should focus on their strengths and avoid comparing them to others, and only allow them to view positive media influences. Lastly, we should use shopping as an opportunity to teach them about making informed choices. By implementing these practices, we can help shape our children's perception positively, and lead them to a happier and healthier upbringing.