The Dangers of Mollycoddling Children

Mollycoddled is a word that is used to describe someone or something that is treated with excessive indulgence or pampering, often to the point of being overprotected or overindulged. The term is often used to criticize parents who are too permissive or lenient with their children, allowing them to get away with behavior that would be unacceptable from others.

The word "mollycoddle" itself has a somewhat uncertain origin, but it is thought to have originated in the mid-19th century as a colloquialism in the United Kingdom. It may have been derived from the name "Mary codd," which was a common name for a nurse or caregiver at the time. Over time, the term came to be used more broadly to describe any kind of excessive pampering or indulgence, rather than just the specific context of childcare.

Some synonyms for mollycoddled include spoiled, overindulged, and overprotected. These words all convey the idea that someone or something is being treated with too much attention or leniency, often to the point of being unable to function independently or make responsible decisions.