Published on
updated on
Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Amélie Boukhobza (Clinical Psychologist)
Has your child been behaving differently lately? Is he withdrawing or, on the contrary, is he very dependent on certain people? These signs can sometimes reflect a need for attention. Explanations.
Increased anxiety, academic difficulties, sleep disorders… A child lacking love may exhibit various behavioral signs that indicate an unmet emotional need. Here are the ones to know.
Love, a key element in healthy child development
Need we remind you? Love is crucial for the healthy development of a child.
Parental affection indeed creates a secure emotional environment that promotes self-confidence and emotional well-being in toddlers.
This love allows him to explore the world with confidence and curiosity, thus promoting his cognitive, social and emotional development. In addition, the love of parents and close circles offers the child a model of healthy relationships, positively influencing his ability to form stable emotional bonds throughout his life.
Beyond violence (a child who hits, gets angry, rebels), tears (the child cries easily) and agitation (the child tests, gets into mischief) – three typical symptoms of a child lacking love – Amélie Boukhobza, psychologist, reveals other signs to take into account in a child that can indicate “a lack of love or at least a need for affection” :
- “A withdrawn child who isolates himself, avoids interactions with his peers and prefers to stay alone.”
- “A child who shows little interest in activities and games he once enjoyed.”
- “A child who seems sad, or shows signs of depression.”
- “A child who is very anxious, excessively worried or fearful of everything for no apparent reason.”
- “A constant search for attention marked by defiant, oppositional or disruptive behaviors.”
- “A distrust of others in general, children or adults.”
- “Excessive dependence on certain people.”
- “Physical disturbances: sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep, nightmares, restless sleep; eating disorders: loss of appetite or overeating.”
- “School difficulties: sudden lack of attention and concentration, drop in results.”
- “Finally, regressive behaviors such as bedwetting, thumb sucking, or an excessive need for comforters or other security objects.”
“If several of these signs are present, it is important to pay attention to them and act accordingly: perhaps offer more presence, stability or emotional security. You should also not hesitate to consult a mental health professional for advice and appropriate support.“, the expert concludes.
Slide: 10 misconceptions about education