Recently, several parents of elementary-aged children have inquired about compulsive behaviors, so I will write a little something to briefly introduce them. What is compulsive behavior? Compulsive behavior is the repetition of actions that are not necessary, such as repeatedly washing hands, repeatedly asking the same question, repeatedly checking, repeatedly doing a set of sequential actions, and starting over when interrupted or when they think they are not doing it right (for example, some children must enter the door with their left foot, and if they use their right foot or forget which foot they came in with, they have to walk again). Obsessive-compulsive behaviors often coexist with obsessive-compulsive thinking, such as repeatedly thinking about the same problem, repeatedly associating a series of unfortunate events that will occur, knowing that they are impossible but unable to restrain them, and provoking emotional tension and fear. Repeatedly thinking about whether their actions are correct, creating unnecessary doubts, to be verified repeatedly, etc. The behavior of these thoughts is unnecessary, but cannot be controlled by oneself. Obsessive thinking and compulsive behavior can occur in normal people, for example, often people go downstairs and worry if they left the door unlocked and go back to check before they are reassured. How are children’s compulsions different from adults? Adults are more likely to think compulsively, while children are more likely to behave compulsively. Adults have more pronounced “counter-compulsions,” which means they control their own compulsive behaviors, while children generally have less active control. In addition, as children grow up, there may be phenomena that look like compulsions, such as walking and counting the attic, repeatedly folding handkerchiefs and making sure they are folded neatly. What is obsessive-compulsive disorder? Obsessive-compulsive behavior and obsessive-compulsive thinking can occur in normal people, but if it occurs for more than two weeks in a row, on most days, and affects the child’s daily life and learning, interaction with peers, and play, and if the child himself or herself is distressed, then you need to consider the possibility of OCD. What kind of children are prone to compulsive behavior? As we can see, children with obsessive-compulsive behaviors tend to be more sensitive, demanding, cautious, introverted, and conscientious. Why do compulsive behaviors occur? We generally believe that compulsions are closely related to anxiety (worry, fear, nervousness). For example, a child who repeatedly asks if his hand is caught after closing a drawer, or if his hand is bleeding after using scissors, does so because he is worried about getting hurt; repeated hand washing may be because he is worried about getting sick. The causes of anxiety in children may include: 1. Genetic factors: one of the parents of anxious children may also be a person who is easily worried, easily nervous, thinks more about things, and tends to think in a bad way. 2, the child’s temperament type: as mentioned, some children grow up to be sensitive and introverted, cautious and timid, these children are more prone to anxiety. 3, education style: parents are too strict discipline, too much scolding under the child is prone to anxiety. 4, family problems: parental tension, family conflicts, etc. may also lead to anxiety in children. Is it terrible for children to develop obsessive-compulsive behavior? In fact, studies have shown that anxious children tend to perform well because they are sensitive, self-demanding, cautious, and conscientious. These children have good qualities and intelligence, and as long as adults in their lives pay attention to their words and actions and guide them appropriately, without reinforcing their anxious thoughts and avoidance behaviors, most of these children will grow up to be good people. How do parents respond? I don’t know what to say every time I write about this because coping is a complex matter that is hard to express clearly in simple words; and each child is unique and individualized treatment is the most appropriate. 1, parents pay attention to their own emotions, parents’ anxiety is often passed on to their children, it is important to control their emotions and be positive and optimistic. 2. Work with a local child psychiatry and child psychology professional. However, it is recommended to go to a formal institution, do not rush to the doctor. 3, read relevant books.