My 7-year-old son told me that he is very afraid to go shopping with me in a hypermarket - he is scared by large buildings and rooms (supermarkets, churches) - especially in the evening. I feel much better when we are going with the whole family, i.e. still with my husband and 3-year-old daughter. Then the visit is acceptable to him. Is such anxiety something serious or will it grow out of it?
Hello! Most likely yes. Such fears in children are very common. They cover various issues and issues, sometimes changing from week to week. Today, the child is afraid of a dark room, and the next month is afraid of a specific street, leading, for example, to an unpopular aunt. The world of children's imaginations and associations may be unimaginably beautiful and rich, but unfortunately it can also cause anxiety. It is important to control this fear in such a way as not to strengthen it or ignore it too much. This is a difficult matter, but for a delicate and empathetic mother, definitely a way to go. Please observe your son, rather do not discuss this topic unnecessarily, for now stop at visiting this unfortunate shop together. He can use some form of play in this place (play with available toys, look at electronic equipment with dad), involve the child in finding products, talk to him about what he sees, what he likes, etc. All this to distract him from possible emotions and not to perpetuate any unpleasant associations. However, if the condition worsens, it is necessary to consult a child psychologist or psychiatrist. But please don't worry. These things really happen more often than adults.
Remember that our expert's answer is informative and will not replace a visit to the doctor.
Tatiana Ostaszewska-MosakHe is a clinical he alth psychologist.
Graduated from the Faculty of Psychology at the University of Warsaw.
She has always been particularly interested in the issue of stress and its impact on human functioning.
She uses her knowledge and experience at psycholog.com.pl and at the Fertimedica Fertility Center.
She completed a course in integrative medicine with the world-famous professor Emma Gonikman.
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