How to understand “highly sensitive” children?

What kind of child is a “highly sensitive” child?

They are like fog, rain and wind, and sometimes, like a fire in winter. Their thinking and emotions are easily affected by external factors. The slightest disturbance will trigger their anxiety, impatience, fear, inferiority or temper. In short, they are the kind that are difficult to coax, and it can be said that they are "a waste of time for both parents and teachers."

Image source: Internet search

Psychologists have found that one-fifth of the population has a "highly sensitive" personality trait, and 30% of "highly sensitive" people are socially active.

"High sensitivity" is not a personality defect, on the contrary, it is a unique talent. Why do you say that? Let's see~

Well-developed nervous system

First, their nervous systems are well developed, and they can perceive external stimuli and information more keenly.

For example, why doesn't this child listen carefully in class? It may be because he perceives something that others don't notice; the teacher's subtle expression, the classmates' small movements, etc.

These inexplicable stimuli will soon cause his nervous system to "collapse", and he will then make various reactions that will be interpreted by teachers and classmates as "disobedience of discipline."

Image source: Photo Network

Empathy

Second, they have strong empathy.

They tend to be particularly sincere and considerate in interpersonal relationships. However, this high level of empathy also makes them easily involved in other people's emotions, making themselves exhausted.

For example, if he suddenly becomes inexplicably unhappy, it may not be because he is unhappy about his own affairs, but because of the "stupidity" of his desk mate.

Image source: Internet search

Good at crisis management

Third, be cautious and good at crisis management.

Habitually anticipate possible problems, think about various possible outcomes, and then avoid risks.

However, this overthinking may also cause them to be hesitant and indecisive when faced with choices.

Too much attention, not being able to accept yourself

Fourth, they tend to pay too much attention to others’ opinions of themselves and have a low level of acceptance of their true selves.

They tend to be perfectionists, which makes them unable to accept criticism from the outside world and appear to be "fragile"; they also often dare not take risks or challenges for fear of failure and losing face, and they stick to their own way and are unwilling to accept others' advice. This is how they protect their inner "perfect self".

However, if such children are guided well, they will be more motivated to pursue achievement than ordinary children.

Image source: Photo Network

Understanding is the prerequisite for love.

If you understand a "highly sensitive" child, you will be able to tap into a steady stream of educational resources from his rich emotional library.

Author|Hou Miemie

Editor | Mujiji