Children will often become so focused on certain things that they almost seem obsessed with them. Some might like to spend their time lining up their shoes in a certain way, while others twist or chew their hair. Most of these habits are a natural part of growing up, but if the moment they start to affect a child’s life, they can be classes as compulsive and they should be looked after.
In general, a parent will know whether something is a natural part of growing up, or whether something might need closer attention. For instance, children who are fascinated by scabs will often peel them to see if they bleed. This is completely different to picking at the skin until it’s sore just to see it bleed.
Why do they happen?
Compulsive habits reflect a change in a child’s life that confuses or scares them, leaving them with the desire to regain control.
Some examples of include:
- starting school
- moving home
- new sibling
- friendship problems
- bullying
- parents splitting up
How to cope?
Parents are advised to keep a close eye on what might trigger their child’s compulsive habit. Some may act up when they are left alone and simply anxious about not getting enough attention.
Parents should aim to retrain their little one’s brain by helping them focus on something else, otherwise they can try the following:
- Staying calm rather than showing frustration or irritation.
- Not intervening every time their child does a compulsive habit – it may increase their anxiety.
- Praise your child when they do something good, rather than criticizing the habit.
- Give them a chance to tell you how they’re feeling – they may realize that chatting about the habit is a better way to deal with anxiety.
- Sit down as a family once a week to discuss how things are for everyone.
- If your tween has a compulsive habit that none of his or her friends have, you should not be alarmed. Don’t assume it’s a problem because at the end of the day, it could be a better clue of whether your child is distressed or not.
