Psychologists warn of small behaviors that should not be overlooked, warning signs from children that parents must know
Don’t think it’s just “normal child behavior,” psychologists warn parents not to ignore children’s behaviors that are “danger signs.”
Forget about the monsters under the bed. Your child’s real nightmares may be the way he or she behaves at the dinner table. On the phone screen, or when he or she thinks no one is watching.
Child psychologists warn that parents should not dismiss certain behaviors as “normal child behavior,” as these minor behaviors could be signs of hidden danger.
Worrying symptoms, such as loss of appetite, aggression, or playing with your phone secretly, may indicate deeper stress or internal issues and may require more than just gentle punishment.
“These emotional and behavioral problems should be addressed early. Before they escalate over time,” psychologist Dr. Regin Mouradian told Parade magazine.
Dr. Carla C. Allan, chief of psychology at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Said parents should see a pediatrician if they see persistent “delays, stalls or regressions in skills and abilities.”
Another silent danger in the digital age is when your child starts demanding secret Internet access.
“If you notice that a child in your care is trying or insisting on using the Internet alone or in private, that’s a sign that you need to get to the bottom of their motivations.” Warns Dr. Brett Biller, a psychologist and director of mental health at Hackensack University Medical Center.
Meanwhile, if your child suddenly changes their eating habits, don’t be quick to assume that it’s because they’re growing up or they’re just picky eaters.
“These symptoms can be a sign of stress, anxiety or an eating disorder,” explains Dr. Denitria Vaughn, a psychologist at Thriveworks.
Aggressive, irritable or violent behavior are also important warning signs, Dr. Mouradian said. “If not addressed quickly, these negative behaviors can continue into primary and secondary school.”
Parents should be careful about using foul language, especially in group chats.
“There is an increasing use of inappropriate language. Such as words that are disability-specific, racist, or sexually suggestive.” Says Dr. Larisa Litvinov, a สมัคร UFABET วันนี้ รับเครดิตฟรีสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ child and adolescent psychologist with more than 20 years of experience.
Another behavior that should not be overlooked is frequent nail biting, which is often a sign of stress or anxiety.
But remember, the problem may not be solely the child’s fault.
The New York Post reported on a 2024 study from Ohio State University that parents’ emotional exhaustion is directly linked to their children’s problem behaviors as well.
“As parents, we often have very high expectations of ourselves,” said study author Kate Golick. “But at the same time, we can easily compare ourselves to others, which often leads to judgment and pressure.”
When parents are burned out, they tend to yell, hit, or guilt-trip their children more, which only makes things worse.
“Parents who are burned out are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and stress, while their children are more likely to experience behavioral and emotional problems,” said Dr. Bernadette Melnick, Ohio State University’s vice chancellor for health affairs.
Experts recommend not to panic, but to solve the problems one habit at a time calmly.
“Focus on changing one behavior at a time so your child doesn’t feel stressed or overwhelmed,” Dr. Denitria Vaughan, a psychologist at Thriveworks, tells Parade. “And don’t forget to reinforce good behaviors with positive praise and encouragement.”
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“Some behaviors or situations may require professional intervention,” Dr. Vaughn added. “Professionals who work with children and adolescents can help, through talk therapy or play therapy.”