Instilling: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'instillare', which means 'to drip in', suggesting how values or ideas are gradually introduced.
• Initially used in the 14th century, it referred to the slow introduction of concepts or ideas, much like how rain slowly fills a pond.
• Its transition to a broader educational context occurred in the 20th century, emphasizing values and beliefs.

Education

• Effective teaching often involves instilling a love for learning, motivating students to pursue knowledge independently.
• Character education programs in schools focus on instilling positive traits such as honesty and respect in students.
• Research shows that the early years of a child's life are critical for instilling foundational beliefs and attitudes.

Psychology

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy often aims at instilling positive thought patterns to combat negative behaviors.
• Developing resilience in children is about instilling skills that help them deal with challenges and setbacks.
• Social learning theory suggests that we instill behaviors in others by modeling appropriate actions ourselves.

Culture

• Cultural values are often instilled through storytelling and traditions passed from one generation to the next.
• Rituals and ceremonies in various cultures serve to instill important community beliefs and collective identity.
• Globalization has led to a mix of cultures, influencing how values are instilled in younger generations.

Philosophy

• Philosophers like John Dewey advocated for education that instills critical thinking rather than rote memorization.
• The concept of 'moral education' emphasizes the importance of instilling ethical values in students.
• Existentialists argue that individuals must choose which values to instill in themselves rather than accepting imposed beliefs.

At rank #25,694, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25692 adjectival
• 25693 extirpated
• 25694 instilling
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