This archive report was first published on 22 April 2020.
As a parent, it's natural to worry about your child's emotional well-being and whether they may be developing into a psychopath. However, with the right guidance and support, children can learn to manage their emotions and develop healthy relationships.
According to Dr. Catherine Syengo Mutisya, a Consultant Psychiatrist and Family Therapist, it's essential to identify the underlying causes of a child's anger issues. 'Find out the anger outbursts' pattern. Has there been any change in the child's life?' she advises.
Dr. Mutisya recommends that parents manage children's behavior by spending quality time with them, setting clear boundaries, and enforcing consequences for misbehavior. 'Make sure that consequences are enforced for misbehaviour and loss of privileges and time out depending on the age of the child.'
When dealing with a child who has experienced a loss, such as the loss of a sibling, it's crucial to be open and honest with them. 'Do not sweep the matter under the rug. Bring it up and answer the child's question as per her age and intelligence,' Dr. Mutisya suggests.
Children can also be affected by external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Mutisya advises parents to model calmness, reduce the amount of information their child accesses, and create a routine that includes physical activity, leisure, and sleep.
Ultimately, raising a child with healthy emotional development requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to learn and adapt. By following Dr. Mutisya's advice and being proactive in their child's emotional development, parents can help their child build a strong foundation for a happy and healthy life.
