Unfortunately I think they were taught this attitude.  Most of the parents I've known who have kids who are teens and young adults now have kids they've allowed to rule the house from time they were toddlers. Over the years I've heard them talk about going to their children's schools to complain when their children are disciplined, doing their kids' homework for them because the kids wanted to watch TV instead, going out three times in an evening because their kids demand to be taken out to dinner, driven to the store, etc. One complained about how her daughter just refused to help with anything, and expected to be waited on hand and foot.  I said, "You said she was going to a movie tonight -- it's a no-brainer. Until she cleans up the mess she made baking cookies (which was the issue of the day) she doesn't go out."  "Oh, I couldn't do that!" said her mother. "She'd totally throw a tantrum."  "That's two more nights she doesn't go out then," I said, "She'll get the message."  But for many of that generation's parents, it's more important to be the child's friend than a parent, and too much work to actually be the grown up.

Anomalocaris..  I totally agree with you.  I see it everyday.  My own kids think they have the meanest mom ever because I will not drop everything to run to Target, etc.  It's a huge challenge to remain diligent in setting boundaries for your children when so many others don't.   I often wonder why parents have become so seemingly afraid of their kids.  Don't they see how difficult it will be for these children when they grow up and realize they are not the center of the universe?

Hi I and M, I heard some  of the discussion re: the student who didn't turn in the paper because she went out the night before. First, what's the name of the book you were discussing? I couldn't wite it down as I was driving. Second, I am a teacher at the university level and this new crop of students amazes me sometimes.  One student thought I'd give credit for a missed  lab because she helped her roommate run a kid's party.  Noble, but not worthy. Students often think I'll give credit for missing a class because they have to work. When I tell them they will have to schedule their work around school, they get angry.  Then they walk away in their expensive jeans, holding their books with manicured nails, clutching their expensive cell phones, tossing their  professionally dyed, coiffed hair, and get into their new cars.  When I was their age, I worked at a fast food chain, borrowed my parent's car before I bought my junker, got my hair cut at the cheappie salon, and shopped at thrift shops. (I am 41 years old.)  The sense of entitlement is something I cannot get used to and am trying to avoid while raising my son.  Thanks for allowing me to post this. Love you guys.   By the way, I still shop at thrift shopsl!  xxxx0000  

Bun Bun

Ian, I wonder (out loud) if this phenomenon has anything to do with the way the parents and the school system are hell bent on not allowing a child to experience failure?  in an effort to raise self esteem, we are in fact failing our children.

Self esteem is acheived thru acomplishment.  Pure and simple.

Hi again, I just realized how old I sound and that it sounds like I'm saying I walked 3 miles to school in waist high snow. I didn't, but really, spoiled kids often make spoiled, unhappy adults. That's the point I wanted to get across.  Thanks again,