Model Trustworthiness to a Child

Modelling various forms of behavior to a child can leave a permanent mark or dent when developing a child's character. Social influence is crucial. Just as adults learn from one another, children in effect do the same. They also learn to mimic the behavior of adults and peers around them. Social reinforcement plays a major role in modelling your child's behavior.

Steps

 * 1) Reward good behaviors that display trusting or show any element of  morality. This can be achieved by buying a present, offering sweets and chocolates or any commodity the child may perceive as a reward. This element is crucial. Be certain that this is something your child will ENJOY.. It may seem pointless to buy the child a set of books, that actually achieve the opposite effect than the intended outcome. The child may see this as, or misinterpret this gesture if he or she dislikes reading.
 * 2)  Punish unacceptable behaviors that warrant a lack of trustworthiness. Punishment must not be too harsh or this will further disturb and confuse the child. Punishment may take the form of "No television", "Forfeiting pocket money", or any other form of behavior that the child will DISLIKE.
 * 3)  Avoid shouting or screaming at the child. Look into the reasons warranting the dishonest behavior. Treat the cause, not the symptoms.
 * 4)  Do not physically or verbally abuse the child. This may cause severe emotional and self esteem setbacks which will in turn create more problems for the child.
 * 5)  Handle the situation delicately. Monitor the external influences and try to curb or avoid these negative models for the future. Remember children will learn everything from poor social influences. Find out who their friends are. If this seems to lead to the cause, in a very subtle way, steer your child away by becoming more involved. This can be achieved by time out, to the beach, movies, playground etc, with your own direct involvement. This will keep the child away from the other unpopular bad influences or "Bad Kids".
 * 6)  Model your own behavior, such that the child can understand differences between right and wrong. (Social Reinforcement) No point in having double standards, as children will pick up on inconsistencies and become more confused.
 * 7)  Be aware of what your child watches on television. Encourage neutral  and mind stimulating programmes. Ensure that these do fall within the required age restriction bracket. Age restriction is advised or prescribed for a good reason. By following this regime strictly, you will ensure that future psychological and social disasters can or will  be prevented.
 * 8)  Allow for mistakes on the path of your child. Life and a great part of growing up involves a great deal of learning.