Helping Children Conquer Irrational Fears

By Liza Bonin, Ph.D.


n 0pt"> 


n 0pt">‘There’s a Monster in My Closet!’


n 0pt">As a natural part of growth and development, children will develop fears. Fears become a reason for concern only when they are persistent and interfere with a child’s daily routine. When a fear reaches this level, it’s often identified as an “irrational fear” or “phobia” – an intense concern about an object or situation that would not trouble most people. Whether or not a fear can be defined as “irrational” depends on a child’s age and level of development.


n 0pt"> 


n 0pt">Toddlers often have fears involving separation, noises, falling, animals and insects, of using the potty, bathing and bedtime. Common fears among preschoolers include animals and insects, monsters and ghosts, getting lost, divorce, loss of a parent and bedtime. Fears of separation, noises, falling, new situations (especially starting school), social rejection, war and burglars often affect school-aged children. Teen-agers and adolescents fear new situations (going to high school or college), war, divorce and sexual situations.


n 0pt"> 


n 0pt">While specific events, such as falling, getting burned or being chased by a dog, may also trigger lasting anxiety, many fears are a function of temperament or mood. Children’s fears may increase during a time of stress. Children may release their stress or act out their grief by demonstrating what they are afraid of. Major life events, such as a new baby, moving, divorce or death of a loved one, can intensify fears. It’s important to keep in mind that children whose parents show anxiety, worry a lot or tend to overact, are modeling behaviors for their children


Articles Tools

Top