Princess sickness

Princess sickness (alternatively known as princess syndrome, Chinese: 公主病; or princess disease, Korean: 공주병) is a neologistic term used colloquially in some parts of Asia, notably Hong Kong, mainland China, South Korea and Taiwan, to describe a condition of narcissism and egocentricism, or 'princess' behaviour. Conversely but less commonly, males with a similar outlook may be described as having 'prince sickness'.

It is speculated that the term originated with the rise of the Asian Tiger countries, in which rapid economic growth may have contributed to a corresponding rise in consumerist or materialistic attitudes and upper classes investing heavily in their children, who might subsequently become accustomed to material wealth and domestic help.

In Hong Kong and China, low birth rates have meant that families often have only children that are the sole focus of their parents' energies. In China the resultant phenomenon, often attributed to the one-child policy, is known as 'Little Emperor Syndrome'. A combination of helicopter parenting and domestic help, allowing middle-class parents to work, can contribute to their children being spoilt. A widening income gap in Hong Kong, along with concerns over democracy and social inequality, also reflects the perceived attitudes of the 'elite' classes.

Furthermore, social mobility in these countries is largely based on personal and academic achievement. For that reason, parents may place a great deal of pressure on both children and their teachers, micro-managing their child's academic career. Some suggest that this results in dependence or a lack of responsibility.

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