Teachers are often called our spiritual parents because they guide us not just in studies but in life. But sometimes, their actions can hurt more than help. Negative teacher behaviors impact students by making them feel discouraged, anxious, or even fearful.
For example, when a teacher constantly criticizes a student or shows favoritism, it can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of motivation.
In this blog, we’ll explore four specific ways these negative teacher behaviors impact students, affecting their learning and emotional well-being. Understanding how negative teacher behaviors impact students is the first step in hindering student growth.
Why Teachers Are Important for Education and Learning
If we simply handed books to kids and provided them with all the resources in the world, would they still learn on their own?
No,
Teachers exist to build a connection between children and books.
A student learns from the way a teacher speaks, shares experiences, and interacts with others.
They observe how a teacher treats people, what they prioritize, and what they value. That is why a teacher is called a spiritual parent.
But today, I want to talk about certain behaviors—both intentional and unintentional—that teachers exhibit, which leave deep scars on students’ minds. These behaviors shape students’ beliefs in ways that make life seem overwhelmingly difficult.
- The Obsession with Perfectionism
You may have heard your teacher say:
Fatimah, I didn’t expect this from you.
This phrase is often directed at students when they make a mistake. However, teachers rarely take the time to understand the other side of the story.
They don’t always consider the mental struggles or personal challenges a student might be facing.
A great teacher is one who tries to understand at least a part of their student’s story—why they are unable to score well, why they might not be able to concentrate in the morning, or why their mind doesn’t work the same way as others.
This is the difference between teaching and educating.
- The Echo Chamber Effect
Recently, I was attending a marketing class where the teacher asked:
In your opinion, what does marketing mean?
A student replied,
Madam, I think marketing is about telling both the good and bad points of a product and encouraging people to buy it.
The teacher immediately corrected him, saying:
Always remember, in marketing, you never reveal the weaknesses of your product.
No one questioned this statement because we all believed it was the only truth.
It wasn’t until later that I realized marketing is also about honesty and long-term brand loyalty.
This is how echo chambers work.
When we repeatedly hear the same idea without questioning it, we start to accept it as absolute truth.
But just because something is taught does not make it true.
Many times, teachers unknowingly pass on narratives without questioning them. However, just because something has a strong impact doesn’t mean it’s right.
Critical thinking is an essential skill in learning. You must build your own opinions. Don’t accept everything blindly. Question the information given to you.
- The Good Student Bias
Every kid is unique and expects to be heard and respected.
But what happens when teachers start favoring only the high achievers?
I still remember my physics teacher. One of my classmates once asked him:
Sir, why don’t teachers treat all students equally? They give more attention to those who score well, while others don’t seem to matter.
The teacher replied:
You know, this happens in your homes too. Parents proudly introduce their intelligent and smart children to relatives, but not the weaker ones.
But I disagree.
Just because injustice exists in one place does not justify its existence elsewhere.
Additionally, just because people around you behave a certain way does not mean you should adopt the same behavior.
For kids, it may be difficult to recognize unfair treatment.
But for teenagers and young adults, this message is important:
You don’t need to be anyone’s favorite.
A teacher may favor anybody or may not. Just do your best, work hard, and respect everyone. But don’t run in the race to be someone’s favorite.
4. The Over-Glorification of Tough Exams
Beyond favoritism, another issue in the education system is the pressure tied to academic achievements.
Teachers often glorify academic pressure. You may have heard teachers say:
This exam is extremely difficult, and only a few students will be selected.
Teachers often glorify students who pass these so-called impossible exams and secure good grades and top positions.
While there is nothing wrong with appreciating hard work, turning it into an obsession is dangerous.
In Asia, students often suffer from mental health issues due to academic pressure. Some even take extreme steps when they fail an exam. They tie their entire identity and self-worth to one test.
And who instills this fear in them?
Mostly, it is the teachers.
Teachers should remind students that there is much more to conquer in this world than just exams.
They should teach students that there are worlds beyond the stars, that being unique and creative matters, and that life is not just about passing the toughest tests.
Your life’s aim should not be:
- I want to work in the biggest tech company.
- I want to get into the toughest college.
- I want to earn a high-paying job as soon as possible.
These can be goals, but they should not define your entire existence.
Your true purpose in life should be:
- To do good for the people around you.
- To stay happy.
- To grow and improve every day.
The world does not need more perfectionists. The world needs more good human beings.
Final Thoughts
This post is not just for teachers. It is for students. It is for anyone who follows beliefs without questioning them.
Think critically, question narratives, embrace personal growth, and become better versions of ourselves—not for perfection, but for the sake of goodness.
