Accomplished clinical psychologist Dr. Beth Grosshans has provided
psychotherapy to children in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
The author of Beyond Time-Out, a parenting text that discusses power
dynamics and child anxiety, Dr. Beth Grosshans now focuses on sharing
her expertise with schools.
When a child displays anxious
behaviors, parents frequently rush to separate the child from the source
of the anxiety. Experts warn, however, that such a response instead
strengthens the anxiety and prevents a child from learning coping
skills. Psychologists suggest that children with fears need to develop
the confidence to manage their feelings and face scary situations.
This
process involves both empathizing with a children's feelings and
supporting them as they face their fears, a message that can be as
simple as, “it's okay to be scared; I'm here for you.” Experts warn
parents not to ask a child if he or she is worried or to show worry
themselves, as the child can then feel that he or she should be afraid.
Instead, parents and other adults can model calm behavior, encourage
tolerance of anxious feelings, and make a plan for coping with a
potentially frightening situation. However, if the child seems to be
experiencing disruptive levels of anxiety, parents may need to consult
with a mental health professional.
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