WNY Answers: Should Kids Get Participation Trophies?

This morning we started talking about what are now known as "participation trophies", as Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jame Harrison took away his kids trophies, saying he doesn't want them to be rewarded them for nothing.

Keith and I disagree on this one.

I think participation trophies are useless (for kids 7+)...to me, they teach the child "just show up, you'll get something" instead of encouraging them to work hard to excel. To me, it gives way to a nation of "takers" instead of "makers".  If I just show up at work, and don't do much else, or am bad at what I do, I don't expect to keep getting a paycheck, and I fully don't expect to get bonuses or other perks.

Keith is all for them, saying they should be rewarded -- regardless of age -- for being part of the team and participating.  His thought is that while not everyone can be the best athlete, etc., you should still be rewarded for being part of the group.

We opened it up to YOU.  Overwhelmingly on the text line (241-9696) you agreed with me.  On the phones, it was more 60/40....

As of post time, the informal poll is showing 89% say they're a BAD idea.