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Children Those who have difficulty separating from their parents are sometimes called “Velcro kids” – a reference to the company that made the fastener famous for its temporary adherence.
On social media, parents have used the term to share frustrating — and sometimes adorable — moments of clinginess. Examples include when a The child tries to enter the bathroom attempting to reach parents or when someone Child clings to his parent’s leg while walking in a shopping center,
Even teens can express similar “Velcro” behavior — in a video shared online, a teen gently uses His foot touched his parents while resting on the sofa,
But children who have a habit of following their parents around, constantly touching them, or getting upset when they separate may prompt some people to ask: Is this a phase or an unhealthy attachment style?
psychological research indicates that it is normal for infants and children to attach themselves to parents and become distressed when separated because they depend on parents for food, comfort, safety, hygiene, and other basic needs.
Studies also show that a child’s lack of object permanence, or the understanding that objects continue to exist even when not directly seen or felt, contributes to their negative emotions when a parent walks away even for a second.
But research has found no link between an infant’s attachment style and their clinginess as a baby or toddler.
Separation anxiety can increase throughout childhood As children go through changes in environment and lifestyle.
“A child who seemed content exploring independently or in no distress when separated from a parent may become clingy later due to developmental changes or life stressors such as starting school, adjusting to another location, or family changes,” said Dr. Danica Perry, a pediatrician at Nemours Children’s Health. parents.com,
Even as they grow into adolescence, children may seek their parents’ reassurance or comfort, resulting in “Velcro” behaviors such as being in constant communication or wanting to follow parents around the house.
While most children’s clingy nature is temporary, living in its grip can cause emotional exhaustion for parents.
Perry said, “Over time, a continued lack of personal space can contribute to feelings of irritation, anxiety or guilt. It can also affect relationships with partners or other children.”
So what can parents do?
Parents who are emotionally drained by their child’s clinginess can seek help from a partner or other adult they trust to set boundaries, According to Child Mind Institute. Setting expectations for the child to say “goodbye” to a parent and then allowing someone else to take over can provide some relief and help children practice.
Clinical experts suggest that other caregivers can divert children’s attention away from parental deprivation by giving children a task, setting up a fun activity, and rewarding them for being different.
There are some situations where “velcro” behavior may be a symptom. separation anxiety disorderA type of anxiety disorder that is diagnosed by a doctor. But those behaviors are more intense than traditional stiffness, interfering with daily activities and mood.
According to the Mayo Clinic, children with separation anxiety disorder have a persistent fear of separation, which can manifest in nightmares, intense tantrums, persistent worry that something bad will happen to a parent, refusal to participate in activities or go to school, headaches and stomach aches.
Medical professionals determine whether a child has separation anxiety disorder by looking at the intensity of the child’s reaction and the frequency of being separated or potentially separated from the parent.
Once diagnosed, the doctor can provide a treatment plan that may include therapy to help the child learn coping methods and understand the root of the fear, lifestyle changes to make the child more comfortable with separation, and, in some cases, medication.