15 Things That People Warned Us About As Kids That Didn't End Up Being That Serious

If you were anything like me as a kid, you were probably warned about many things by adults. It seems they were trying to prepare us for the "real world," but honestly, they probably prepared us for some of the wrong things.

I think all of us can recall a time when an adult warned us about a specific issue or told us that things were going to be a lot more difficult than they actually were. This made many of us worried about growing up and experiencing what was coming our way, even though the adults probably meant well.

However, it turns out that the things people warned us about really weren't that serious or hard to deal with. If you've had an experience like this, you can probably relate to what these people are saying.

A Reddit post received a lot of comments when one user asked, "What is something that you were warned about when you were younger that you now feel was exaggerated?" This post had comments rolling in from all over.

We compiled some of the best and most relatable comments that were left on this post. Let's dive in and take a look at what people said in response.

Here's the original question that was asked.

u/Marshalljoe

I definitely feel like this is something that was warned about, as if we'd have to send it in with our resume.

u/Marshalljoew

Warnings about boys or girls just made us want to be more involved with them.

u/Marshalljoe

Perceptions of Risk and Safety

As children, we often receive warnings from adults about various dangers in life, which can lead to heightened perceptions of risk. According to Dr. Madeline Levine, a renowned child psychologist, "Children absorb the fears of adults, which can distort their understanding of safety and risk." This phenomenon is closely related to the concept of 'social learning theory,' as noted by Dr. Jonathan Haidt, who emphasizes that children learn behaviors and fears through observation and imitation of adults. When children internalize these fears, they may overestimate the dangers of otherwise normal experiences, leading to anxiety and avoidance behaviors in adulthood. For instance, a child who is warned about the dangers of talking to strangers may grow into an adult who struggles with social interactions. It’s essential for parents to balance caution with encouragement, helping children develop a more accurate understanding of their environment while fostering resilience rather than fear.

I mean, this was definitely exaggerated, but also not, because it is dangerous.

u/Marshalljoe

This was definitely something that many teachers told us as we were going into the next grade.

u/Marshalljoe

This was very exaggerated by literally every adult in my life. The saying that it takes seven years to digest is also a myth.

u/Marshalljoe

Another psychological concept at play when adults provide warnings to children is the idea of 'overprotectiveness.' Research from the University of Michigan suggests that when parents are overly protective, they inadvertently inhibit their children's ability to develop coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. This phenomenon can lead to what psychologists term 'anxiety sensitivity,' where individuals become overly fearful of experiencing anxiety itself, ultimately creating a vicious cycle.

To combat this, experts recommend fostering an environment where children are allowed to take safe risks. Parents can create opportunities for their children to face manageable challenges, gradually increasing complexity as their confidence grows. This approach not only builds resilience but also helps children learn that while some risks exist, many experiences are safe and rewarding.

This is interesting because I've actually never heard this saying before. Midnight sounds like a nice curfew, though.

u/Marshalljoe

The Bermuda Triangle is something people just stopped talking about, but I don't really understand why.

u/Marshalljoe

I must not have grown up where this person did because this wasn't really a fear that I had, but I can imagine that it would be terrifying to hear as a child.

u/Marshalljoe

The Dangers of Catastrophizing

Adults often warn children about potential dangers in a way that can lead to 'catastrophizing'—a cognitive distortion where one assumes the worst-case scenario will happen. This concept is supported by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, which emphasize that negative thought patterns can significantly impact emotional well-being. Studies show that children who learn to catastrophize often develop anxiety disorders later in life, as they struggle to differentiate between realistic threats and exaggerated fears.

To mitigate this tendency, parents and caregivers can model 'realistic optimism.' This involves acknowledging potential risks while highlighting positive outcomes and manageable solutions. For instance, instead of solely warning a child about the dangers of failing a test, a parent might also discuss strategies for studying effectively and reassure the child of their abilities. This balanced approach encourages a healthier mindset and resilience in the face of challenges.

This is such a funny thing to me because I don't get why we were told this. Did our parents just not want us making silly faces?

u/Marshalljoe

This is true; they definitely don't, but that doesn't mean that your next job can't ask about the situations you've been in during your work life.

u/Marshalljoe

The things that parents will do to get their kids not to do bad things.

u/Marshalljoe

The warnings adults give often stem from their own experiences and fears, which can create a cycle of anxiety passed down to future generations. Research from the American Psychological Association highlights that parental anxiety can significantly influence children's emotional development, leading to increased rates of anxiety disorders among those exposed to fearful parenting styles. This transmission of anxiety illustrates the importance of awareness in parenting and the need to break the cycle.

One practical recommendation is for parents to engage in 'mindful parenting,' which involves being present and aware of one's emotions and reactions. This practice encourages parents to reflect on the fears they project onto their children and to approach discussions about risk with a calmer, more balanced perspective. By doing so, they can foster an environment where children feel safe to explore their world without unnecessary fear.

It's wild because now many people are making great careers without a degree.

u/Marshalljoe

The benefits of this will come in handy if needed, but for now, it seems pointless.

u/Marshalljoe

This is totally not a thing that happens literally ever.

u/Marshalljoe

The Role of Social Comparison

Children are often warned about the dangers of peer pressure and social comparison, which can be magnified during adolescence. According to research from Stanford University, social comparison is a significant factor influencing self-esteem and self-worth in children and teenagers. When children are constantly compared to their peers, they may develop a distorted self-image, leading to anxiety and feelings of inadequacy.

To counteract these negative effects, experts recommend teaching children about the value of individuality and personal growth. Encouraging children to set their own goals and recognize their unique strengths can foster a healthier self-concept. Parents might also promote discussions around the unrealistic portrayals often seen on social media, emphasizing that not all comparisons provide an accurate or fair view of one's worth.

This is so true, and it should be taught that predators can be in your own family.

u/Marshalljoe

These scenarios were some of the ones I was told as a kid too, so it's crazy to see that we all had similar experiences and still haven't dealt with some of the things we were worried about. Parents are just funny in what they tell kids.

Do you have any to add to this list that you were told?

Psychological Analysis

It's fascinating how the warnings we receive as kids shape our perceptions of risk and safety. Often, these messages come from a place of anxiety in adults, reflecting their own fears and experiences, which can lead to children developing exaggerated fears or avoidance behaviors. By promoting a more balanced perspective on risk, parents can help their kids build resilience and navigate the world with confidence rather than fear.

Analysis generated by AI

Psychological Framework & Solutions

Understanding the psychological implications of the warnings we receive as children can provide invaluable insights into our emotional development. According to Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, "Navigating childhood fears with intention is essential for building resilience and emotional health." She emphasizes that addressing these issues with a thoughtful approach enables children to develop into confident adults ready to face life's challenges. Furthermore, Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist, states, "Fostering open communication and encouraging safe exploration can significantly mitigate the effects of irrational fears instilled during childhood." Ultimately, these strategies are crucial for nurturing emotional well-being in children.