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Introverted Children are Normal
All parents worry about their children. They see the abundance of problems in society in general, as well as the seemingly growing number of sociological disorders that affect children. In some cases, even the experts have trouble understanding or explaining the modern prevalence of autism, ADHD, food allergies, and more. Then there is the horror of child abuse. Keep in mind that despite all your fears, introverted children may be that way naturally.
In order to make a fair assessment and reach a rational conclusion, we must allow for natural personality factors, characteristics that a child is born with, before jumping to an erroneous and perhaps damaging conclusion.
Still, you need to examine all aspects of the child's environment as we do not wish to ignore a factor that may indicate a serious situation requiring attention. If, however, it is just the child's natural personality, we don't want to magnify it out of proportion. Doing so without reason can only serve to put a misplaced and negative emphasis on the child.
Introverted children may have several distinct personality characteristics.
- they may be uncomfortable in the limelight
- they may prefer to watch rather than show
- they may simply delight in being in the background
Psychological studies have shown that introverted children are often geniuses, gathering information about the world around them before expressing themselves to others, including their parents and siblings. Many famous artists were introverted children, just waiting and watching for their time to bloom.
While introverted children can be a sign of a troubled environment, don't jump the gun. Take all the factors into consideration. If you know, or are the parent of an introverted child, consider first that this child is a natural observer, one who wishes to take it all in before commenting. Such children may be the most astute among us.
While you keep your eyes peeled for evidence of disease or abuse, don't make so much of it where it isn't warranted. Introverted children may just be born that way. Shy and timid, humble and unpresuming, these children are delightful. Cherish the naturally introverted child.
(p.s. Grandpa Richard was introverted for part of his childhood, even into early adulthood. He can still have this tendency, but often overcomes it when necessary.)
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