Certain habitual childhood behaviors, known as “fidgets,” are quite prevalent. Hair-twirling, a common fidget, often goes hand in hand with another familiar habit: thumb-sucking. The reasons why children twirl their hair bear a striking resemblance to why they suck their thumbs. These behaviors primarily act as coping mechanisms for anxiety and stress, means to combat boredom, and sources of comfort and self-soothing. Learn more about the link between hair-twirling and thumb-sucking below.
Understanding Fidgets: Hair-Twirling and Thumb-Sucking
Children frequently resort to thumb-sucking or hair-twirling when they experience feelings of anxiety or stress. These actions offer them a sense of calm and control and assist them in managing their emotions. The repetitive action involved in twirling hair and the rhythmic pattern of sucking a thumb provide a soothing mechanism that alleviates anxiety.
Boredom can also trigger these behaviors. When children lack mental stimulation, they often engage in physical activities to distract themselves. The ease and accessibility of hair-twirling and thumb-sucking make them attractive options for children seeking a quick distraction.
These habits also come with an emotional aspect. Children commonly associate thumb-sucking and hair-twirling with feelings of comfort and security. These behaviors usually develop at a young age, when children are discovering ways to self-soothe. As a result, the behaviors become ingrained over time, providing a source of comfort during unfamiliar or unsettling situations.
When to Be Concerned
These behaviors are common and generally harmless, but they can sometimes indicate underlying emotional issues. If hair-twirling escalates to hair-pulling, where the child starts to pull out their hair, eyebrows, or eyelashes, it may be a sign of a serious mental condition called trichotillomania, which is a cause for substantial concern and immediate medical attention. Similarly, if these behaviors persist beyond the toddler years or start to interfere with daily activities, consulting a pediatrician or child psychologist may be wise.
Constant hair-twirling can also eventually lead to hair damage. The continuous twisting can weaken the hair strands, leading to breakage and thinning.
Strategies To Stop Hair-Pulling and Thumb-Sucking
Various strategies are available to help children stop these behaviors. One effective method is using a device such as a thumb-sucking glove. This tool is designed to prevent the suction action that provides the child with comfort, thereby breaking the habit.
Understanding the link between hair-twirling and thumb-sucking can provide valuable insight into a child’s emotional state. By recognizing these behaviors and responding effectively, parents can ensure their child’s healthy development.
