The opposite effect in young people would be **negative self-talk** or **negative affirmations**, which can shape their mindset and behavior in harmful ways, just as positive affirmations can be empowering.

### **Negative Self-Talk and Its Effects on Young People:**

1. **Reinforces Negative Thought Patterns:**
- Constantly telling themselves things like "I'm not good enough" or "I can't do this" strengthens neural pathways related to low self-esteem and self-doubt.
- Just like positive affirmations create strong neural connections, repeated negative thoughts make it easier for the brain to default to those negative patterns.

2. **Hinders Memory and Learning:**
- Negative self-talk can affect **memory formation** and **learning** because stress and anxiety, often caused by these thoughts, impair brain function. Stress releases hormones like cortisol, which can weaken memory retrieval and neural growth.

3. **Limits Neuroplasticity:**
- Neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt and learn, but chronic negative thoughts can limit this adaptability. Instead of building new, positive connections, young people may reinforce negative beliefs that are harder to change over time.

4. **Creates Self-Fulfilling Prophecies:**
- When young people repeatedly focus on their perceived shortcomings, they can end up behaving in ways that confirm these beliefs, leading to lower motivation, poor performance, and avoidance of challenges.

5. **Leads to Mental Health Issues:**
- Continuous negative affirmations can contribute to mental health problems like depression and anxiety, as they form persistent, negative neural circuits.

In summary, just as positive affirmations can empower young people, negative self-talk can have the opposite effect, reinforcing harmful beliefs and limiting personal growth. Helping young people practice **positive affirmations** can counteract these negative patterns and encourage healthier mental development.