‘When a child is repeatedly called ‘buddhu’…’: Sameera Reddy says was bullied after struggling with stammering as a kid; expert on impact of childhood labels

She further emphasised the importance of supportive environments at home, noting how conversations with children can shape resilience and self-worth. “I tell my children to talk to me, to understand that a struggle in one area does not define who they are, and never to put someone else down in return. When children receive encouragement, guidance, and opportunities to learn at their own pace, confidence and resilience naturally grow. Parents, educators, and peers all play a role in replacing judgment with support, ensuring children see challenges as part of learning rather than a reflection of their abilities,” she said.

Addressing the pressures many parents face today, she also spoke about the growing culture of comparison and over-scheduling. “When you look around today, there’s a lot of pressure on parents to constantly do more. It almost feels like FOMO, one child is doing pickleball, another is learning piano and violin, someone else is in multiple classes, and it becomes a very competitive space,” she told Hindustan Times. 

Encouraging a more individualised approach, she added, “In all of this, I always tell parents what I personally try to follow: listen to your child. Understand who they are and what works for them. What may be great for one child may not necessarily be right for another.”

But when a child is repeatedly labelled as ‘weak’ or ‘slow,’ how does this impact their long-term psychological development?

Rasshi Gurnani tells indianexpress.com, “When a child is repeatedly labelled as ‘weak’ or ‘slow,’ these external judgments often become internalised as part of their core self-concept.” Over time, this can lead to low self-esteem, heightened self-criticism, and a persistent sense of inadequacy. From a psychological standpoint, this reflects the formation of negative core beliefs, which can influence how individuals perceive themselves and interpret social interactions well into adulthood.

“Such early experiences may also contribute to social anxiety, avoidance behaviours, or perfectionism as coping mechanisms,” she says. Without intervention or corrective emotional experiences, these effects can persist, subtly shaping relationships, career choices, and emotional regulation patterns later in life.

How parental communication and emotional attunement influence a child’s ability to cope with challenges

“Parental communication and emotional attunement are critical protective factors in a child’s psychological development,” says Gurnani. When parents respond with empathy, validation, and patience, especially in situations involving bullying or speech difficulties, it helps the child feel seen and safe. This sense of emotional security strengthens resilience by reinforcing the belief that challenges can be managed rather than feared.

“Consistent support also aids in developing healthy coping strategies, emotional regulation, and self-worth,” she explains. In contrast, dismissive or critical responses can intensify feelings of shame or inadequacy. “A nurturing environment allows the child to separate their identity from their difficulties, which is essential for long-term psychological well-being.”