It's Natural That Children Have Certain Obsessions, When Should They Be Watched Out? Check The Explanation

Illustration of when to be vigilant if a child has certain obsessions (Freepic)

YOGYAKARTA - Every parent must have seen their child very focused on one thing, could be dinosaurs, cars, unicorns, or even hours and lights. In fact, children's obsessions like this are very common and most of them are part of their normal development. Obsessiones of this kind often come in the form of deep and intensive interest in one particular topic. They are children who will trace books, videos, and various objects related to the theme.

This Obsession can last for several weeks until years, then change to another theme, and so on. In fact, the tendency to intensely explore one subject is often considered a characteristic of a child with high intellectual abilities. That is, they have a high curiosity, strong memory, and the ability to focus deeply. So in fact, this obsession can be a positive sign, as long as it doesn't interfere with other functions.

Distinguishing between normal obsessions and symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is not easy, because some signs can be similar. Here are four things to watch out for and are distinguished from obsessions that include OCD.

In children who have a reasonable obsession, what they enjoy grows from interest. This interest also makes them happy to explore topics he likes. Unlike what children experience with OCD symptoms, obsessions get out of unpleasant thoughts and because of emotional stress.

For children who have an obsession with the shape of toys, such as dinosaurs or certain series of cars, usually their activities do not interfere with other activities in tracing what they like. When experienced by children with OCD symptoms, obsessions createpetive activities, have to be repeated, to interfere with other activities. For example, washing hands repeatedly until the hands are irritated or checking until it is excessive.

As described above, citing Today's Parent, Friday, July 4, children's interest in certain topics as long as they don't interfere with other activities is natural. But if it causes severe anxiety and interferes with daily functions, it is important to immediately consult a mental health professional or psychologist.

According to a report reported by Verywell Health, about 1.2% of children experience OCD. This condition begins to appear between the age of 712 years and is characterized by a persistent mind (obsessive) as well as mental or physical rituals that reduce anxiety (compulsive).

Childhood experts advise parents to pay attention to three indicators. First, whether obsessions interfere with daily activities, such as school, play, sleep, or social relationships. Second, do children show symptoms of excessive anxiety when not performing their rituals such as anger, stress, or crying. Third, whether parents cannot control their children's behavior towards obsessions.

If children have a reasonable obsession, parents can use this interest as a learning door. Implement also a reasonable limit to exploring or pursuing these interests. Parents also need to interact based on their children's interests by studying, watching, or playing together.