How to Cultivate Responsibility in an 18-Year-Old

Patient's question:

Doctor, I just want to consult you about my 18-year-old child. He lacks responsibility, cannot take things on his own, and doesn't even have the most basic sense of guilt. He doesn't attend final exams, doesn't make up lessons, and doesn't feel anything even if he gets 10 points on a test paper. No matter how I scold or persuade him, using both soft and hard methods, he doesn't care. He is selfish and would never consider others even a little bit, believing everything is something he is entitled to. It feels like he is a shell without emotions or spirit. Even if I wanted him to join the military for training, I feel he would become a robber and take legal responsibility alone. What should I do? Is there no hope for him? Doesn't this count as the most basic personality?

Doctor's answer:

It might be due to the excessive pampering he received from his family or influenced by his personality, lacking a sense of responsibility, the ability to stand alone, or feelings of guilt, which makes his family feel very troubled. If you don’t feel at ease, I suggest he visit a psychological department in the hospital for an examination. If necessary, seek timely and professional treatment. In daily life, it is hoped that his family will show more care and attention to him, avoid excessive criticism and blame, focus more on his strengths and talents, and praise his small improvements promptly to help him build confidence. At the same time, it is important to instill a sense of rules in him, letting him know that breaking rules will result in additional penalties. Use genuine care to guide him, allowing him to gradually feel the warmth and concern from his family and friends, which will slowly lead to positive changes. He can also understand the benefits of psychological counseling and therapy.

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