As parents, it’s natural to want the best for our children. We strive to provide them with love, support, and encouragement to help them grow into confident, resilient individuals.
However, sometimes, kids may struggle with low self-esteem, which can affect various aspects of their lives.
Identifying the signs early on can provide the necessary support and intervention.
Here’s a guide to recognising signs of low self-esteem in kids:
1. Adverse Self-Talk
Observe how your youngster describes themselves in language.
Phrases such as “I can’t do anything right” or “I’m not good enough” or persistent self-criticism may be signs of low self-esteem.
2. Requesting Permission
Youngsters who have poor self-esteem could be continuously looking to their parents, instructors, or peers for affirmation or acceptance.
They can constantly compare themselves to others or obsessively look for validation of their skills.
3. Steering Clear of Obstacles
Children who lack self-worth could shy away from challenges or new endeavours out of fear of failing or receiving negative feedback.
Sticking to what they are already proficient at might help them avoid the awkward feeling of failing.
4. Withdrawal from Social Media
If your youngster would rather be by themselves than with friends, pay attention to that.
Children who have low self-esteem may retreat from social engagements due to feelings of loneliness or inadequacy.
5. An obsession with perfection
Although aiming for greatness is commendable, a child’s self-esteem may be harmed by perfectionism.
Youngsters that struggle with poor self-esteem may be the ones who are extremely critical of their performance and cannot tolerate anything less than perfection.
6. Insufficient Self-Assertion
Youngsters who have poor self-esteem may find it difficult to make their wants and opinions known or to impose themselves.
They can be reluctant to speak up in class or stand up for themselves in public.
7. Overindulgent Self-Claim
Youngsters with poor self-esteem may be those who continually place the blame for everything that goes wrong—even events beyond their control.
They might feel too much accountability for unfavourable results.
8. Having Trouble Taking Praise
Observe your child’s reaction when you commend them.
Youngsters who lack self-worth may minimise their accomplishments or duck accolades since they don’t think they deserve it.
9. Changes in Mood
Mood swings, such as unexpected bursts of rage, tears, or irritation, can be a sign of deeper emotional issues, such as low self-esteem.
10. Having Trouble Making Choices
Youngsters with low self-esteem may find it difficult to make decisions because they worry that they will choose poorly and draw criticism or condemnation from others.
