Don't Let Youngsters Become Over-Pressured

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Can children or adolescents over-extend themselves--join too many groups or clubs--be involved in too many activities? Mental health professionals think the answer is "yes"!

Sometimes parents try to live through their children. They take such pride in their children's achievements that they pressure them into getting the highest grades, studying music against their wills, excelling in athletics or other forms of competition and achievement.

When this type of pressure gets too great, the child or adolescent may show signs of emotional or behavioral disturbances. He or she may sleep poorly, not take time to eat a balanced diet, may develop a nervous habit such as biting the fingernails, twisting strands of hair, picking the nose, or may break out in a rash.

When this happens, an over-pressured child may be made to feel more comfortable through parents "backing-off" and lowering demands. Worthwhile achievement can still be obtained by the child in a more comfortable manner and at a slower pace. Children should have time to be children!

Ronald Pitzer
Family Sociologist

Originally published in September, 1984

College of Human Ecology in cooperation with the University of Minnesota Extension Service

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