Author says many privileged kids develop unhealthy behaviors

By Staff Writer

The author of a new book about privileged children said that he has seen high levels of dysfunction among the offspring of rich parents.

Reuters recently reported that wealth manager James D'Amico has published a book called The Affluenza Antidote: How Wealthy Families Can Raise Grounded Children in an Age of Apathy and Entitlement. He said that while DNA and birth order can influence an individual's personality, some children of wealthy parents go astray and encounter various problems, such as alcoholism, drug abuse, mental illness and depression.

D'Amico told the media outlet that society tends to glamorize the delinquent behavior of spoiled celebrities, such as Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. He said that these figures serve as role models to teens, instead of responsible individuals such as Chelsea Clinton, who is wealthy and seemingly stays out of trouble.

In his book, D'Amico offers an assortment of tips to help parents keep their privileged kids well-grounded, such as exhibiting a healthy respect for money and hard work., as well as a strong commitment to family time.

Spoiled children may benefit from tough love, when parents take away certain privileges in order to instill positive moral and social values.