Rani Mukerji is a proud mom to a ten-year-old daughter, Adira, whom she shares with husband, Bollywood producer Aditya Chopra. In dialog with MasterChef Sanjeev Kapoor, the Black actor shared how her child craves rasgullas on a regular basis, and what she did to curb them.
“Har din she goes, ‘Mumma I need rasgulla’ and now there’s a brand new development ki bachhon ko meetha se duur rakho, sugar is poison, which I do agree. However I additionally really feel that bachhon ko agar upar se bole ye mat khaon woh mat khaon, toh woh zyada khaate hai. Isiliye mera plan alag hai, she mentioned, including that “Most important usko abhi bolti hoon khao khao, phir usko aise lagega mummy aisa kyun bol rahi hai — let me eat karela then.”
Mukerji’s hack is predicated on the precept of reverse psychology, which Dr Pavana S, guide psychiatrist, relationship professional and sexologist, Bangalore, outlined as a psychological technique the place people encourage others to do the alternative of what they want by presenting a counterintuitive suggestion. “Employed in numerous contexts, it manipulates human behaviour by exploiting the pure tendency to withstand direct persuasion,” she defined.
This delicate type of persuasion usually depends on the need for autonomy, making the goal really feel in management whereas unknowingly following the prompt course. From parenting to advertising and marketing, reverse psychology performs a task in influencing selections. Whereas controversial, its effectiveness raises moral questions in regards to the boundaries of psychological manipulation in interpersonal relationships and societal interactions, in response to Dr Pavana.
In parenting and relationships, reverse psychology is usually a double-edged sword. Whereas it is perhaps employed with good intentions, reminiscent of prompting a toddler to contemplate different views, its use can result in misunderstandings and erode belief, mentioned Dr Pavana.

“Using reverse psychology to govern a child’s behaviour might be perceived as deceitful, probably harming the muse of mutual respect. Moral issues come into play, as transparency and open communication are essential in wholesome relationships,” she added.
Must you use reverse psychology in parenting? (Supply: Freepik)
Whereas she acknowledged that it would function a short-term technique to keep away from confrontation, its effectiveness might be restricted in fostering real understanding and determination. Over-reliance on such techniques might result in communication breakdowns and undermine the authenticity of the bond between mother and father and kids. Wholesome communication, empathy, and compromise are extra sustainable instruments for battle decision.
Story continues under this advert
What are you able to do as a substitute
Dr Pavana shared some alternate methods to persuade your little one to do one thing with out utilizing reverse psychology.
Efficient Communication: Develop open and trustworthy communication to specific wants and considerations instantly.
Energetic Listening: Domesticate the talent of listening empathetically to grasp your companion’s perspective.
Compromise and Collaboration: Search mutually helpful options by way of compromise, selling teamwork.
Story continues under this advert
Therapeutic Help: Think about {couples} counselling for skilled steerage in navigating conflicts and bettering communication.
Constructing Belief: Prioritise trust-building actions to create a basis of honesty and reliability within the relationship.

