What Is Six Pocket Syndrome? Expert Tells Why It Isn't Clinically Recognised Yet

The Six Pocket Syndrome is in the spotlight these days. While many social media users and some health experts are striving to define the typical characteristics of this condition, there is a noticeable lack of evidence to support these descriptions. Recent reports suggest that the Six Pocket Syndrome can lead to rude and overconfident behavior in children, primarily as a result of over-pampering or helicopter parenting. However, due to insufficient data and awareness, many people still do not understand the exact causes of this condition. To clear all your doubts, we spoke with Dr. Samant Darshi, Interventional Psychiatrist at Yatharth Hospitals and Founder, Psymate Healthcare. Read on for more insights.

What is Six Pocket Syndrome?

The term Six Pocket Syndrome is used informally to describe children who are raised by several adults-typically two parents and four grandparents-who are likely to pamper them emotionally and financially. "It implies that excessive spoiling by six sources of income (pockets) might at some stage in life, stifle the emotional, social, and behavioural development of a child," Dr. Darshi said.

It can be stated that the six-pocket syndrome stems from the choice of having just one child, which allows the child to be directly impacted, usually pampered, by six different individuals. This can often result in coddling.

Why is it not recognised yet?

"Six Pocket Syndrome is not an accepted condition due to the limited empirical evidence behind it. It does not appear in medical or psychological diagnostic manuals, and is often based on cultural or anecdotal experiences. It serves as a form of social commentary rather than a clinically identified disorder and has not been thoroughly examined or proven through scholarly or clinical research," Dr. Darshi explains.

What are the possible causes?

The expert explains that the Six Pocket Syndrome can develop when children are excessively indulged by their caregivers-two parents and two sets of grandparents-apparently because of smaller family sizes, increased disposable incomes, and remuneration in terms of warm feelings. Over-protection, over-indulgence, and permissiveness can produce entitlement, poor coping, and dependency in children in the long run.

How to prevent it in children?

"Prevention is established through healthy boundary setting, responsibility and capping material reward. Parents and grandparents have to get on the same values page, spend more time on emotional nurturing than on material gifts, and act as role models of equilibrium behaviour."

"Encouraging shared household responsibilities and decision-making with kids generates independence and emotional resilience from an early age," the expert advised.

What are the signs and when to intervene?

Symptoms of Six Pocket Syndrome can include entitlement, intolerance of frustration, and excessive dependence on others. Dr. Darshi recommends that parents seek support if a child consistently exhibits behavioural issues, struggles with peers, or shows emotional instability.

"Positive socialization and emotional adjustment can be promoted through behavior therapy or early counseling," he concluded.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.