Recognizing Social Anxiety in Children and How to Help
It can be difficult to think about your young child struggling with something like social anxiety.
As adults, we assume most kids don’t have any real fears or worries, so far too many children go undiagnosed. Recognizing some of the signs of anxiety, including social anxiety in kids can help you become an advocate for your child. Many children may be more susceptible to experiencing social anxiety, particularly if there is a family history or history of social challenges.
If your child is experiencing social anxiety, watching out for signs of physical symptoms, avoidance of social situations, and withdrawal are important. You can offer your help and support at home, and understand when to reach out for professional support from a child therapist for social anxiety.
What Causes Social Anxiety in Children?
Many factors can contribute to social anxiety, from genetics to life experiences. Your child’s genes can impact how well they manage stress or how shy they might be. They might also have role models in their lives who exhibit similar symptoms.
Here are some of the most common causes on social anxiety in kids:
A family history of anxiety or anxiety disorders
Bullying, teasing, or rejection from peers can cause them to become socially anxious.
Major life changes that cause stress in a child’s life, including divorce or tension in the home can trigger a variety of anxious thoughts.
Children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or any kind of trauma might also start to exhibit signs of social anxiety.
Getting to the root cause of your child’s social anxiety is often the first step toward effectively treating it. But first, you need to be able to recognize the signs of social anxiety in children.
What Are the Symptoms of Social Anxiety in Kids?
Children with social anxiety exhibit many of the same signs and symptoms as adults. It’s important to spot the symptoms of social anxiety early.
Feeling self-conscious in social situations
Avoiding social situations such as birthday parties
Melting down or throwing a tantrum before a social event
Being worried about what others will think of them
Not speaking up or answering questions at restaurants or in class
They might cling to you or hide behind you so they don’t have to face people directly.
They might also expect you to speak “for” them so they don’t have to interact with others.
While it’s good that your child feels safe and secure with you, that kind of behavior should be seen as a warning sign for anxiety symptoms. While some kids may grow out of it when they are older, a lot of kids may benefit from professional therapy.
What To Do If You Think Your Child Has Social Anxiety
Don’t hesitate to educate yourself as much as possible on social anxiety in children if you are concerned your child is experiencing anxiety.
Do your research, of course, but also ask your child how they’re feeling. Let them know those feelings are valid, and consider asking them where they come from or when they feel the worst.
Don’t establish unrealistic social expectations for your child. Rather, encourage them to interact with others slowly. Taking baby steps and celebrating small wins can help them become more confident. Most importantly, consider reaching out to a professional for help.
If you’re interested in starting therapy for your child, reach out to us to learn more about how we support children with social anxiety. At SoCal Child Psychology, we support children and teens with anxiety in San Diego.