The absence of a close friend may be one of the most important warning signs of a youngster who is vulnerable for psychological problems. Peer relationships are important at any age, but particularly for preteens and adolescents. As with adults, friendships among kids are based on shared interests and values.
As argued, socially isolated children are at increased risk of health problems in adulthood. Furthermore, studies on social isolation have demonstrated that a lack of social relationships negatively impacts the development of the brain's structure.
Give your child opportunities to practice social skills as often as you can. Extracurriculars outside of the school day can be a great way for children to connect with peers that share their same interests. Encourage your child to take up a sport, join a club, play a new instrument, etc.
Sometimes you get left out because you look, act, or dress differently from other kids. Or just because you're the "new kid" in class. Kids who get into cliques usually want to be popular and feel cool. Sometimes kids think that belonging to a clique will keep them from feeling left out.
Social isolation in early childhood can indeed affect a child's growth and development. In fact, children deprived of social relationships can experience cognitive and speech delays, as well as physical and mental health concerns in adulthood.
The child's 'isolated' state manifests itself in defective social interaction and communication between mother and child, in disorders of perceptual function and motor skills, in stereotyped behaviour and in general developmental retardation, especially in language.
Dr. Rooney advises keeping things in perspective. “Kids need just one or two good friends. You don't have to worry about them being the most popular kid in their class.”
Should I be worried? No, not really, particularly if it isn't bothering your child. There are many reasons why your child might not be invited to a lot of parties and playdates. Perhaps your child has a smaller group of friends or your child's friends do after-school activities or are in after-school care.
For children, anxiety about interacting with adults or peers may be shown by crying, having temper tantrums, clinging to parents or refusing to speak in social situations.
Fully 98% of teens say they have one or more close friends: 78% say they have between one and five close friends, while 20% have six or more close friends. Just 2% of teens say they do not have anyone they consider a close friend.
Some kids have social difficulties.
Their interpersonal skills are lacking, which puts off peers and makes it tough to develop friendships. They may not read social cues properly. They may be controlling or aggressive or talk only about themselves and show little interest in others.
There is considerable evidence that prolonged loneliness during childhood has lasting effects, with some children becoming depressed in their adolescence, and some having ongoing difficulties into adulthood.
Research shows that chronic loneliness has the following effects: Increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Less restful sleep. Negative impact on physical health (more than smoking or obesity)
Stay-at-home mom burnout refers to a state of chronic stress and exhaustion experienced by moms who have the full-time job of taking care of a home and kids. Burnout can also impact mothers who have careers outside of their home, too.
Similarly to anyone experiencing redundancy, the mother may feel worthless, disoriented and unsure of what meaning her future may hold. However, most mothers adapt in time. Psychologists suggest that it may take between 18 months and two years to make the successful transition from 'mum' to independent woman.
The classic, stereotypical form of empty nest syndrome is considered to strike stay-at-home parents. When a parent, stereotypically a mother, stays home with a child, that parent may have few other sources of identity. When a child no longer needs the parent, they may feel overwhelmed by their own freedom.