It’s a horrific three step process.
- Let a boy fail.
- Let the boy think or convince him that failing makes him worthless as a person regardless of whatever else he accomplishes.
- Gamma.
When failure isn’t an option, then the Gamma will no longer compete, lie about his accomplishments, and become delusional about himself. It’s also why the Gamma forever seeks revenge against foes, never forgives himself or others, and is nearly insufferable to be around.
If you are around young men and boys and see one taking failure too hard, please, help the young man out. Let them know that failing is part of life, and getting back up is what makes a man and will make him feel better about failing. Don’t remind him of past failures, completely forgive him when he is truly repentant, and encourage and support future endeavors.
Alternatively, Gammas can make themselves. Wil Wheaton explained how at his Mensa speech:
I was at his speech, and yes, he confirmed that his entry to geekhood, one of the defining moments of his life, was precipitated by getting his ass kicked at dodgeball. While going to wash gravel out of his hands, he met an asthmatic(lucky) kid who didn't have to play. They bonded over D&D. He never played dodgeball again.Cowardice and the avoidance of any chance of failure. That's how gammas are made. All the lies and the delusion bubble and everything else will spring from that.
