About this topic
Shyness may change how your child feels and acts around others. Parents may worry or be scared when their child is in social settings. It may be hard for your child to speak or play with other children. A shy child wants to join with others but is just too afraid of being made fun of or laughed at. Most children have times where they feel less social as they grow up. ‚
General
Here are ways to help your child deal with shyness: ‚
- Do not scold or embarrass your child in public when they act shy.
- Encourage your child to join in activities. Teach the benefits of playing and meeting other kids. Do not push too hard. Let your child take part in activities when comfortable. You may offer some rewards to encourage your child.
- Give your child games or toys that can be shared with other kids.
- Help your child with what to say. Practice with your child.
- Shyness does not go away quickly. Expect slow progress.
- Talk to your childs teachers or caregivers.
- Have open talks with your child about who they want to play with.
Shyness vs Anxiety ‚
Sometimes, shyness can become too much. It can start to interfere with your child's daily activities. This may mean it is more than just shyness. It may be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety is normal when a child is in a stressful event or is in doubt. Each child goes through this stage. With an anxiety disorder, a child has too much fear, panic, and worry. This may make a child want to skip going to places and meeting other people. ‚
There are three types of anxiety disorder often found in children. These are: ‚
- General anxiety disorder ¢ ˆ ’ Being scared all the time that something bad is going to happen. Your child may have a stomachache or headache.
- Social anxiety ¢ ˆ ’ Fear of being badly judged or put down by other people at a social event. This happens most often with children ages 11 or 12 years.
- Separation anxiety disorder ¢ ˆ ’ Anxiety about leaving home or about people whom the child is attached to leaving.
It is OK to let your child go through these feelings. But, too much shyness and anxiety can also be a problem. Your child's whole life may be affected. This includes family, school, sleep, eating, and total health. Here are some things you may do to help your child. ‚
- Pay attention and be sensitive to your child's feelings.
- Stay calm. Do not lose your temper if your child all of a sudden becomes nervous.
- Give your child praise for going through stressful times.
- Find items that comfort your child.
Anxiety disorders can be treated in many ways. Doctors may use drugs and cognitive-behavior therapy or exposure therapy. ‚
- Cognitive-behavior therapy ¢ ˆ ’ Your child is encouraged to talk about fears, anxieties, and worries. The doctor will talk with your child until the doctor understands the thoughts or feelings that control your child's behavior.
- Exposure therapy ¢ ˆ ’ The doctor will help your child talk about a hurtful event, sad memory, or feared object. The doctor will help your child deal with the feelings that may happen. Your child may learn how to cope with unwanted events or thoughts by facing the fears.
What problems could happen?
- Not able to go to school or social gatherings
- Not able to take part in daily social tasks
- Feelings of isolation from friends or family
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Teach your child how to cope with stressful events.
- Let your child express thoughts or fears. Encourage your child to talk to you or to friends.
- Seek support from your friends and family.
- Get expert help as needed.
Helpful tips
Consider joining a support group. This may help you and your child get to know others who are living well with an anxiety disorder. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry ‚
http://www.aacap.org/cs/anxiety_disorder_resource_center/anxiety_disorder_faqs ‚
American Psychiatric Association ‚
http://healthyminds.org/More-Info-For/Children.aspx ‚
Anxiety and Depression Association of America ‚
http://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/children ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/shyness.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚