How to tell if a child has psychological problems
Nov 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
To determine whether a child has psychological issues, observe signs such as abnormal emotional states, unusual behaviors, difficulties in social interactions, declining academic performance, and atypical physical reactions. Children's psychological problems can manifest in various ways, so parents should pay close attention to their daily changes. Once abnormalities are noticed, offer patient companionship and positive guidance, and seek to understand the child's inner struggles through equal and open communication.
To determine whether a child has psychological issues, parents can observe signs in the following areas: abnormal emotional states, unusual behaviors, difficulties in social interaction, declining academic performance, and unexplained physical symptoms. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Abnormal emotional states: The child experiences intense and prolonged mood swings, such as persistent sadness, irritability, or sudden loss of interest in activities. They may frequently cry alone, become withdrawn, or show excessive anxiety or fear over minor matters. Their ability to regulate emotions is noticeably weaker compared to peers.
2. Unusual behaviors: The child displays age-inappropriate actions, such as a young child suddenly biting nails or bedwetting frequently, or a school-aged child skipping school without reason, lying, or damaging property. Behaviors may become rigid and repetitive, or the child may exhibit withdrawal, such as refusing to leave home or avoid communication with others.
3. Social interaction difficulties: A previously outgoing child begins avoiding social situations, refuses to play with peers, and consistently stays alone in group settings. They may resist communicating with family members or teachers, refuse to share their thoughts, and appear indifferent to others' care and concern.
4. Declining academic performance: The child’s academic results drop significantly. They struggle to concentrate in class, delay or carelessly complete homework, and develop strong resistance toward studying. They may even refuse to attend school by claiming physical discomfort, clearly lacking motivation and self-confidence in learning.
5. Unexplained physical symptoms: The child experiences bodily discomfort without clear medical cause, such as frequent headaches, stomachaches, insomnia, or vivid dreams. There may also be sudden changes in appetite—either increased or decreased—leading to abnormal weight fluctuations. These physical symptoms tend to worsen during times of emotional stress, yet medical examinations reveal no underlying organic conditions.
The manifestations of children's psychological problems are diverse. Parents should pay close attention to daily changes in their child’s behavior. Upon noticing abnormalities, they should provide patient companionship and positive guidance, seek equal and open communication to understand the child’s inner struggles, and create a warm, supportive environment for healthy development.
