How to Diagnose Social Anxiety in Children

If you notice some unusual behavior in your child, consider whether it's just a phase or if it could possibly be a form of social anxiety. There are ways to diagnose social anxiety in children and being able to identify what is causing your child's abnormal behavior is the first step in getting her help and treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep track of how long your child has been displaying unusual behavior. Sometimes children go through a shy phase if they are entering a new school, have just recently moved or are in a new environment. However, this typically only lasts about six months, so if the shyness has been going on longer than that, there is a chance they are experiencing social anxiety.

• 2

  Spend time with your child and ask questions. If every morning she complains that she doesn't want to go to school, ask her why. She might be experiencing social anxiety or it could just be that some kids are picking on her or she doesn't like her teacher.

• 3

  Set an appointment to see a physician if your child is constantly complaining that she's dizzy, her stomach hurts or she's experiencing other medical ailments. The doctor can determine whether these symptoms are being caused by a medical condition or social anxiety.

• 4

  Talk to your child to see what he is thinking. Often, children are unable to express what they are feeling. Asking him how he feels when he's with other children or what he thinks other children are thinking about him may open the door for him to more accurately express his anxieties.

• 5

  See if your child experiences extreme shyness or fear when with other children. If your child is constantly trying to avoid interaction with his peers this could be a sign of anxiety.

• 6

  Look for obvious signs of social anxiety, such as throwing tantrums, crying or clinging to you when you leave or the child is in a social setting. It's normal for infants and toddler to go through a stage of separation anxiety. However, for older children this is not normal behavior.