Understanding Anxiety through a Child’s Eyes




Counselor Toolbox Podcast show

Summary: Summary - Children’s cognitive, physical and experiential differences make their anxiety different than that of adults - Children’s symptoms of anxiety also often manifest differently with more irritability, defiance and somatic complaints. - Anxiety disorders are frequently misdiagnosed as ADD, autism, ODD and PTSD - Children’s fears often focus around Maslow’s lower three needs: Biological, Safety, Love and Belonging - Addressing anxiety means helping the child understand, in a developmentally appropriate way, that they will have what they need, they are safe and they will always belong and be loved.