Yes.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that the result of increased wellbeing, freedom, and autonomy in the workplace is the polar opposite of the widespread decreases in productivity and labour force engagement some (many?) predicted. It’s not much of a stretch to suggest the likelihood that children who are not being trained/forced to comply will be more engaged and productive.

There’s a well known Google study which demonstrates the bolstering effect of psychological safety on positive outcomes in the workplace. One of the key points is to frame the work as a learning problem, not an execution problem. In other words, focus on improving cognitive ability vs. manipulating behaviours, just as Karen prescribes here.

Psychological safety is at the very heart of what’s being addressed in this article. Children who happen not to easily acquiesce to others’ wishes tend to be labelled as problematic in traditional daycare/school systems — and that’s a direct threat to a child’s psychological safety. Not only are those children less likely to thrive (per the Google study), but it makes complete sense for them to seek solace elsewhere. Authoritarian groups of all flavours are expert at using these solace-seekers for their own purposes.

Admittedly, that paints a most extreme outcome. But there are many shades of grey in between. Some of those children will internalize their rejection. Some will transform it into disruptive behaviours of all sorts. Some will project it onto others — including family members and loved ones. The societal cost is nothing short of calamitous. And potentially avoidable with a slight shift in perspective and approach, as Karen proposes.

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