While most children grow out of sucking their thumb, in some cases, this habit becomes lifelong. If parents don’t help their children break the habit of thumb-sucking at an early age, it may continue into adulthood. This can have physical and psychological effects on the affected person, leading to potential feelings of shame or embarrassment.
By understanding the psychology behind adult thumb-sucking, parents can better equip themselves to address and overcome this habit. Read on to learn more about the common causes and potential solutions for adult thumb-sucking.
Reasons for Adult Thumb Sucking
Psychology is nuanced, and individuals can exhibit behaviors for various reasons depending on their unique experiences and circumstances. That said, there are a few common reasons why adults may continue to suck their thumbs beyond childhood.
Stress Relief
Thumb-sucking can provide comfort in stressful situations. It can serve as a natural pacifier for individuals struggling with anxiety.
One reason for this is that sucking your thumb causes the brain to release dopamine, a feel-good chemical that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Although most adults who suck their thumb don’t directly think about that hormone release, they know that thumb-sucking makes them feel better.
The Problem With This
Although this behavior may offer immediate comfort, using thumb-sucking as a stress reliever can become counterproductive. Instead of addressing the underlying causes of stress, individuals may become reliant on this habit, preventing them from developing healthier coping strategies.
Trauma Response
In severe situations, thumb-sucking can also be a response to unresolved childhood trauma. When something triggers memories of that distress, individuals may instinctively turn to thumb-sucking as a way to soothe themselves.
However, relying on thumb-sucking as a form of coping can hinder emotional healing since it only provides short-term relief. In turn, it may be harder to process the situation and heal.
Pro Tip
If your child goes through a traumatic experience, work with a professional as soon as possible. They can help your child process their feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Addictive Habit
When thumb sucking continues beyond childhood, it can become an engrained behavior that your child does on reflex, even as an adult. They may become dependent on thumb-sucking to fall asleep or feel calm. This reliance can result from years of reinforcement and association with feelings of comfort and safety.
Moreover, since thumb sucking triggers the release of dopamine, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop the habit, such as anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. To avoid these feelings, they may continue to engage in thumb-sucking, further solidifying it as an addictive habit.
Boredom
In some cases, adults resort to thumb-sucking simply out of boredom. With idle hands and minds, individuals may unconsciously turn to this familiar action to pass the time. This behavior can provide a momentary sense of entertainment or engagement when there’s a lack of other stimuli.
Coping Mechanism
One of the biggest reasons for thumb sucking in adults can be a coping mechanism to deal with one or several of the above factors. We all cope with our emotions differently, and while some mechanisms, such as meditation, journaling, or exercise, are healthier, others can have negative consequences.
Developing other self-soothing and stress-relieving techniques can help individuals break the cycle of thumb-sucking and find healthier ways to cope with their emotions. Seeking therapy or speaking with a trusted friend or family member can also aid in understanding and addressing the underlying reasons for thumb-sucking.
Long-Term Effects of Thumb Sucking
When understanding the psychology behind adult thumb-sucking, consider its long-term effects on a person’s life. These include:
Jaw Development Problems
The constant pressure exerts force on the teeth and jaw, leading to misalignment, which may affect oral health. Due to altered jaw development, individuals may experience discomfort, difficulty chewing, and even speech difficulties.
Furthermore, the habit can cause changes in the roof of the mouth, contributing to further alignment issues. These issues may necessitate orthodontic treatment, resulting in additional time and expense.
When the jaw or palate doesn’t develop properly, an individual may experience speech problems. More specifically, they may have difficulties producing speech patterns, such as the “s” sound. This can affect their confidence and make it harder for them to communicate effectively.
Increased Risk of Illness
When a person sucks their thumb, they constantly introduce their body to any germs that may be on their hands, which can increase the risk of illnesses and infections. Additionally, thumb-sucking can lead to skin irritation or infection around the mouth.
Social Stigma
Thumb-sucking can be embarrassing during adolescence and especially in adulthood. Most of us see it as a cute habit for babies and toddlers, not for adults. This societal pressure and stigma can cause individuals to feel ashamed of their behavior, leading to a lack of confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, this social stigma may prevent some adults from seeking help or addressing the habit, causing them to continue it in secret. This secrecy can be detrimental to one’s mental health and overall well-being, creating a sense of shame and guilt.
Ways To Stop Thumb Sucking
Breaking a thumb-sucking habit during adulthood can be far more challenging than it is for children since it becomes a regular part of an individual’s routine. You can help your child end this behavior by:
Intervening Early
Early intervention is key to preventing the long-term effects of thumb-sucking. Parents should address the habit during toddlerhood, as breaking it at this age is easier. Remember, habits become more ingrained the longer they persist.
Identifying Triggers
Evaluating the potential reasons behind thumb-sucking can help individuals identify their triggers and develop strategies to address them. For instance, if stress is a cause, finding healthier ways to manage it, such as deep breathing or exercise, can reduce the urge of thumb sucking.
Additionally, identifying patterns of boredom or reliance on thumb-sucking as a coping mechanism can help individuals find alternative entertainment and emotional regulation sources.
Avoiding Punishments
Punishing individuals for thumb-sucking can be counterproductive since this creates a sense of shame. The person may even continue sucking their thumb in private. Instead, celebrating small victories and acknowledging progress fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy.
Using a Thumb Sucking Glove
T-Guard’s device to stop thumb-sucking is a plastic glove that comfortably slides over your child’s hand. The glove has holes in it, so there’s no suction when they suck their thumb, which takes away from the enjoyment. This will help break the muscle memory of thumb-sucking.
By working with your child early, breaking the cycle of thumb-sucking can be far easier and reduces the chance of it continuing into adulthood. With patience and persistence, you can support your child in breaking this habit and finding healthier ways to cope with stress and emotions.
