Why Young Girls May Experience Loneliness
To be human is to be lonely at some point in life, but there’s an important caveat: We typically think of isolation and loneliness as an adult or teen mental health experience, not one that happens to young children. Yet a new nationally representative survey of 1,000 girls commissioned by the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) offers striking evidence to the contrary.
In the survey, nearly two-thirds of the youngest girls, aged 5 to 7, reported feelings of loneliness. This percentage ticked up with age; nearly three quarters of girls between the ages of 11 and 13 felt the same.
How to Spot Loneliness in Young Children
Loneliness is a normal emotion, but too much of it can be harmful. Isolation is a risk factor for anxiety, depression, and suicidal thinking or behavior. Dr. Whitney Raglin Bignall, associate clinical director of The Kids Mental Health Foundation, said that while parents may be on the lookout for signs of loneliness, they can be tricky to spot in younger children, who might be unable to express that they feel alone or may appear content when occupied with an activity. She noted that it’s generally important for parents to teach their children about feelings and how to share them as a regular practice, not just when they suspect that something is amiss.
What to Do if Your Child is Lonely
Crawford said that when a child indicates they’re lonely, parents should start by asking what would help them feel more connected. They may have simple responses, like taking a walk with their parent or visiting a relative’s house. Parents can also suggest things that help them feel less alone as a way of modeling coping skills to their child.
The GSUSA survey found that most girls of all ages would prefer to be creative, go outside and play, or spend time with their family rather than be on a screen. Parents who learn that their child is lonely could start by evaluating screen time both for the child and the family, looking for opportunities to prioritize in-person experiences instead.
Conclusion
The survey’s findings are a wake-up call for parents and caregivers to be aware of the potential for loneliness in young children. By being proactive and recognizing the signs of loneliness, we can take steps to prevent it and promote healthy social development in our children.
FAQs
* What are some signs of loneliness in young children?
+ Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or irritability
+ Difficulty expressing emotions or feelings
+ Appearing content when occupied with an activity
* What can parents do if they suspect their child is lonely?
+ Ask their child what would help them feel more connected
+ Suggest activities that promote social connection, such as playing with friends or family
+ Evaluate screen time and prioritize in-person experiences
* How can parents model healthy coping skills for their child?
+ Share their own feelings and emotions with their child
+ Engage in activities that promote social connection and community building
+ Prioritize in-person experiences and limit screen time
