Move Your Bus Ch 20

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Questions and Answers

What outcome is suggested as a consequence of children receiving rewards without earning them?

They develop better teamwork skills.

They feel entitled and lack a strong work ethic. (correct)

They become more competitive.

They are less likely to live with their parents.

How does the author view the provision of participation trophies in youth sports?

As beneficial for socialization among peers.

As a necessary practice for self-esteem.

As a positive reinforcement.

As detrimental to developing a competitive spirit. (correct)

What detrimental belief do young graduates reportedly hold going into job interviews?

They will need to start at a lower position.

They should take their time to learn the job.

They need extensive experience to be hired.

They expect to quickly outperform their employers. (correct)

According to the author, why might the education system contribute to a sense of entitlement in youth?

It awards high grades for minimal effort. Signup and view all the answers

What societal trend does the author associate with the decline of civilizations?

A lack of challenges faced by the youth. Signup and view all the answers

What mindset does the author suggest is prevalent among new employees in the workplace?

A tendency to resist constructive criticism. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about capitalism in contrast to socialism?

Capitalism rewards individuals based on merit. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Wanda shocked about her job prospects despite her impressive résumé?

She lacks measurable achievements. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Runners' likely refer to in this context?

Employees who are hardworking and motivated. Signup and view all the answers

What change in attitude was observed in staff appreciation for bonuses over the years?

Gratitude turned into a sense of entitlement. Signup and view all the answers

What lesson can be inferred about entitlement from the discussion of bonuses?

Expectation can diminish appreciation. Signup and view all the answers

What societal issue is highlighted concerning work ethics?

People are not willing to work harder than previous generations. Signup and view all the answers

What action did the board take when they could not afford bonuses due to economic struggles?

They found a way to still provide bonuses, albeit smaller. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the concept of entitlement in the workplace?

Entitlement leads to less motivation to perform. Signup and view all the answers

What underlying belief does Wanda need to address about her job prospects?

Job security is no longer a given in modern work. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Entitlement in the American Workplace

The author, whose name is not mentioned, draws a parallel between the decline of the American work ethic and the perceived rise of an "entitled" generation.
The author contrasts the behavior of "Runners" - Those who work hard and are grateful for opportunities - with those who feel entitled to success and rewards without putting in the necessary effort.
The author points to the practice of giving trophies to all children on a Little League team as an example of a society that is inadvertently contributing to entitlement by not emphasizing hard work and merit.
The author argues that this sense of entitlement extends into the workplace with younger generations expecting recognition and praise even for minimal contributions.
Young graduates express an overconfidence and entitlement, making statements like "I'll probably have your job in two years" during interviews, demonstrating a sense of deserving success without putting in the effort required.
The author emphasizes the importance of gratitude for opportunities, hard work, and a willingness to be critiqued and learn in order to succeed in the workplace.
The author contends that this entitled mindset is contributing to America's declining work ethic and ultimately its decline as a nation.

Education and Entitlement

The author blames the education system for contributing to entitlement, suggesting that it is not challenging students enough and rewarding them for minimal effort.
This is further exemplified by the author’s criticism of awarding everyone on a sports team a trophy, arguing that only the most valuable player should receive such acknowledgement.
The author’s criticism suggests that the focus on boosting children's self-esteem through constant praise and recognition is ultimately hindering their preparation for real-world challenges.

Consequences of Entitlement

The author suggests that this entitled mindset is leading to a decline in American work ethic and ultimately the nation itself.
The author describes the diminishing appreciation for annual employee bonuses, as people began to expect them rather than feeling grateful for the gesture.
The author suggests the decline in educational standards, ranking 27th globally, as due to this entitled generation not prioritizing hard work.
The author warns against celebrating mediocrity and believes that the lack of drive and the focus on self-esteem are contributing to a decline in American society.

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Description

This quiz explores the concepts of entitlement and work ethic in the American workplace. It contrasts the attitudes of diligent workers with those of younger generations who feel entitled to success. Through various examples, including the practice of giving trophies to all participants, the discussion highlights the implications of this mindset for future employment.