Kids notice more than parents think, and new research from McGill University shows that when children see parental honesty and behaviour fall out of alignment, their moral reasoning shifts in measurable ways. Emilie Bélanger, PhD student at the School of Applied Child Psychology, brings findings that hit close to home for anyone who has ever faked a smile over a gift they hated with a child in the room.

The research zeroes in on inconsistent messages: what happens when a parent says one thing about honesty and then does another. It turns out children not only notice the gap, they evaluate it negatively, and that evaluation shapes how they think about truth-telling going forward.

The takeaway is not about eliminating white lies. It is about closing the distance between what you tell your kids and what they actually see you do.

Topics: parental honesty, children lying, moral development, parent modelling, white lies

GUEST: Emilie Bélanger | http://talwarresearch.com

Originally aired on 2026-06-19

Kids notice more than parents think, and new research from McGill University shows that when children see parental honesty and behaviour fall out of alignment, their moral reasoning shifts in measurable ways. Emilie B&eacute;langer, PhD student at the School of Applied Child Psychology, brings findings that hit close to home for anyone who has ever faked a smile over a gift they hated with a child in the room.
The research zeroes in on inconsistent messages: what happens when a parent says one thing about honesty and then does another. It turns out children not only notice the gap, they evaluate it negatively, and that evaluation shapes how they think about truth-telling going forward.
The takeaway is not about eliminating white lies. It is about closing the distance between what you tell your kids and what they actually see you do.
Topics: parental honesty, children lying, moral development, parent modelling, white lies
GUEST: Emilie B&eacute;langer |<a href="http://talwarresearch.com"> http://talwarresearch.com</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-06-19

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.