Social anxiety in children means difficulty interacting with others and fear of social situations, often stemming from low self-confidence. Many mothers, out of love and protection, unintentionally adopt behaviors that negatively impact their child’s personality in the long term. According to parenting expert Salman Al-Jubai’i, there are five common behaviors to avoid:
1. Constantly Comparing Children
Comparing your child to others can make them feel inadequate and erode self-confidence.
It’s better to compare the child with their own previous performance, focusing on personal growth rather than peers or siblings.
Continuous comparison often leads to shyness, withdrawal, and a reluctance to face society.
2. Public Scolding or Embarrassment
Scolding or mocking a child in front of others creates shame and fear.
A child who is reprimanded publicly may withdraw and avoid trying new things, fearing humiliation.
Solution: Provide feedback or discipline privately, away from an audience.
3. Overprotection
Excessive protection prevents the child from learning through experience and mistakes.
Examples: Intervening constantly during homework or play, or preventing the child from exploring independently.
Outcome: The child becomes overly dependent, anxious, and hesitant to face new challenges.
4. Suppression and Restricting Expression
Constantly telling a child to “be quiet” or preventing them from expressing emotions can lead to a fragile, withdrawn personality.
Solution: Allow children to express their feelings, listen attentively, and avoid mocking their emotions, even if they seem childish.
This builds self-confidence and prepares them for healthy social interaction.
5. Fear of Others’ Opinions
Saying things like “What will people say?” instills a constant fear of judgment.
Children may focus on pleasing others rather than making decisions for themselves.
Solution: Encourage children to act according to their values and goals, not based on fear of others’ opinions.
Conclusion
To prevent social anxiety in children, parents should:
Build their child’s self-confidence.
Allow free emotional expression.
Limit public criticism and comparisons.
Balance protection with opportunities for independent experience.
Encourage decision-making independent of others’ judgments.
Following these guidelines helps raise confident children capable of engaging socially in a healthy and balanced way.
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