-Introduction
Words that Control Behavior: Honorifics
Compared to the past, many children don't use honorifics. Sometimes, parents discourage them from doing so, citing a perceived distance between them. Consequently, children today speak to their parents and elders in a friendly manner, as if they were friends. Parents and children have developed a close, almost friendly relationship. However, when this friendliness goes too far, children become spoiled and parents become authoritarian.
In particular, when disagreements arise, parents tend to be direct rather than cautious, easily leading to heated emotions and the worst possible outcome: a breakdown in communication. Why does this result occur when they simply avoid using honorifics? The reason lies in research by American brain scientists, which states that "98% of the 23 billion brain cells in the brain are influenced by speech." Since behavior is governed by speech, perhaps they unconsciously lose their sense of caution and become more direct and impulsive as they use informal language with adults, as they would with friends or subordinates.
So what happens when we use polite language to show respect for our elders? Some people find polite language awkward and distant, but in reality, it's gentle. Respect makes us cautious, and that cautiousness makes us think twice before speaking. Therefore, even in situations that could escalate into a major fight, using gentle, rational polite language can often lead to better outcomes.
Speaking politely can be a challenging task for both parents and children. The eleventh story in the Delicious Study series selects common polite language mistakes children make in everyday life. It teaches children how to use it correctly through their friends' mistakes. Through a variety of games and challenges, children can become familiar with polite language in a fun and engaging way.
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