Your Child's Habits (continued)

When Is a Habit No Longer Just a Habit?

In some instances, a habit may be the result or the cause of a physical or psychological problem. For example, a nose-picker may be uncomfortable because there's actually an object stuck in the nose. And the habits themselves may cause some medical complications, such as:

• nosebleeds in the nose picker
• ingrown or infected nails in the nail biter
• dental problems, such as malocclusion (the failure of the teeth in the upper and lower jaws to meet properly) or thumb or finger infections

A habit may no longer be a simple habit if it negatively affects a child's social relationships or interferes with daily functioning.

Older kids who constantly suck their thumb might be experiencing significant stress or anxiety. If kids are the subject of teasing at school or have difficulty talking because they won't take their thumbs out of their mouths, the behavior has progressed beyond a simple habit. Kids who pull their hair out may have trichotillomania, a condition that results in hair loss. And habits that are in response to obsessive thoughts may be a sign of OCD.

However, most habits don't cause any significant problems and tend to improve as kids get older. But if you're concerned about your child's habits, talk with your doctor.

Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: September 2008