How easily do your kids follow social norms?

How about you?


I am really hoping DD does a better job than I do. My husband lost his job and I was contemplating trying to find a job, too, but I feel so uncomfortable with all of it. I hate every step of it. I hate the way they weed people out. I hate all the conventions... like the resume, the qualifications needed, how you have to dress, how you are supposed to act and not act...

I've been reading all these great books (the last of which was Real Education) and watching talks and such, and I do really wish things were set up the way all the idealists talk about. How great would it be if you could take a test to get certified for most careers and / or if you could submit a portfolio of work you've done? You could still go to college, but you'd also have to make sure you actually know your stuff.

The thought of work politics leaves me feeling nauseous and happy I get to be a SAHM right now. Though I will go get a job waitressing or something if I have to.

I keep thinking of that guy in Outliers who couldn't succeed in life because he lacked social skills. So maybe that is just my problem. I don't know if I just don't want to conform or if I am afraid I'm not going to do well if I try to conform.

(Or maybe lazy because I don't want to "pay my dues" and jump through hoops to get somewhere working for someone else? I read a book one time that basically said - When you work for someone else, your like a goose laying golden eggs and giving them all away for a set salary. Why not keep them and use them yourself? I really really can't get it out of my head.)

Obviously falling in with social norms is about more than just work... it is everything. For kids, I guess it is knowing the right things to say and not say, dressing the right way, or maybe just an overall positive attitude when contemplating the status quo and the ability to easily fit in and be well-liked by most other children.

So... Having trouble with social norms: gifted problem or personality trait issue?

Last edited by islandofapples; 09/28/11 02:15 PM.