What expression describes a negative outcome of encouraging someone to just try harder without acknowledging challenges?

The expression "sink or swim" effectively describes a negative outcome of encouraging someone to just try harder without recognizing the challenges they face. This phrase conveys a lack of support and understanding, suggesting that individuals are left to navigate difficult situations entirely on their own. When someone is told to simply try harder, it dismisses their unique circumstances and obstacles, potentially leading them to feel overwhelmed or unsupported.

In contrast, empowerment, encouragement, and self-advocacy all imply a sense of support and recognition of individual challenges. Empowerment is about fostering confidence and providing tools for success, encouragement involves motivating someone while acknowledging their difficulties, and self-advocacy entails recognizing and articulating one's needs. None of these convey the harsh reality suggested by "sink or swim," which signifies a perilous situation where success or failure hinges solely on personal effort, often ignoring the systemic or environmental factors at play.