'Proud parent of a vegetarian'

Clashes with "My kid sells term papers to your honor student." A backlash against parental bragging.

A certain amount of bragging has long been considered a right of parenthood. It mixes delight in a child's success with a dash of pride that one cannot help but feel as a parent. But when bragging becomes competitive, making parents feel as if they are being drawn into a game of one-upmanship, it takes on a sinister air.