Monday, January 25, 2010

Separation Anxiety In Children

Parents must have heard of separation anxiety faced by the children. According to child specialists, separation anxiety begins from eight months of age and till the age of five it remains prominent and afterwards slowly starts to decrease. This can also said to be normal stage of development and there is nothing to worry about it as is commonly faced by almost all the kids. This anxiety in babies arises because of the feeling that caregiver will leave only to never return again. So, if the child senses the impending separation he/she starts reacting and showing anxiety. Normally, a kid usually expresses his anxiety through clinging to the parents, excessive crying and distress. Frequent demonstration of this behavioural pattern in children is indicative of separation anxiety.

Once parents are aware of this problem, they should devote more time to the kids. If not taken proper care, this might lead to a psychological disorder called the separation anxiety disorder. But, that stage is far away and parents can always treat this anxiety problem with utmost care and devotion. Ideally, parents should remain firm when child starts showing tantrums. The reason is if you get affected by child’s behaviour and react as per his preference, next time handling anxiety symptoms will be even more difficult.

Talking to the kid will help a lot. Make him understand that separation hurts you as well. Understanding and talking will make him feel more comfortable. It will also be a good idea to familiarize the kid with his surroundings. Maintain a proper routine for you so that way child will be aware of timings. Always, always empathize with the child and understand his anxiety. Finally, never ever show your own anxiety to the child. It will make him react even more aggressively.