Behavior Information

The Complainer

Behavior: Specific attitudes and actions of this child at home and/or at school.

  1. Whines and cries about situations-as well as about what he/she has to do. Acts as if he/she has a persecution complex.

  2. Usually lazy.

  3. Doesn't have materials or assignments, but always has excuses.

  4. Because of lack of self-motivation, uses complaining as a form of rationalization.

  5. Repeatedly points out the errors and weaknesses of others in an attempt to get out of doing things and bolster his/her own ego.

  6. Seeks attention with comments such as "I never get to go first," or "I don't see why I have to do it; nobody else does."

  7. Acts as if he/she is the only one who does anything-but, in reality, does very little except complain.

  8. Often seems to be very bored.

  9. Argumentative and questioning about decisions, rules, deadlines, etc.

  10. Shows irritability the minute an excuse doesn't work.

  11. Does just enough to get by as far as class work and assignments are concerned.

  12. Generally speaking, has a poor self-concept, and is not held in high esteem by peers.

  13. Seeks attention by complaining.

  14. May use standard responses, such as "Oh, man," "I never get a break," or "You're on me all the time."



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