With Halloween just a few days away some children may be
displaying more fear than usual. Why are we are afraid of the dark or that
little spider? Daniel Pin a researcher from the National Institute of Mental
Health states, “There is a strong relationship between age and the types of
fears that people report in different cultures. This tells us that there is
something fundamental about the development as it relates to fear.”
Fear
Science defines fear as a complex factor which involves
genetics and experiences. These fears relate to changes in the brain. A toddler
will display a fear of strangers or a fear of being separated from their
parents. As the child grows and develops they may have a fear of certain
animals, thunderstorms or a new environment. An adolescent will have a fear of
rejection from their peers or individual they would like to date. They may
avoid new social experiences for a fear of seeming awkward or making a mistake
in front of their peers. As we evolve into an adult we could fear the possibility
that we won’t meet our personal goals or what we envision our life should be.
Facing our fears
Seeing family members in a costume or mask can be very
frightening to a child. Parents can help alleviate this fear by helping their
child face them. Fears will abate by exposure. Facing your fears in a way that
doesn’t overwhelm your senses would be a beginning step. First reason with your
child and discuss why people wear costumes. Explain that costumes are pretend
and part of the make believe of Halloween. Then show them there is a real
person behind the mask. Give the child a mask to play with while looking at
their self in the mirror. This will help your child to begin understanding the
concept that the real person is still there behind the costume. A parent should
explain this fear to the other children and adults in the home so they understand
the dilemma and not escalate the concern with additional pranks or teasing.
Even a sudden “BOO” can be devastating for a child learning to cope with their
fear.
Parents can also help their child by having them become
involved in the festivities of your family traditions. You could have them draw
the face of the jack-o-lantern or decorate the cookies with candy corn. The
child could play dress up with different costumes and use face paint instead of
a mask. If your child doesn’t want to “Trick-or-Treat” let them dress up but
stay home and hand out the treats for others. Parents should stay close by
their child in case there is a need to reassure him or her. This will help to
transition their feelings of fear into fun.
