As rates of childhood behavioral and emotional concerns rise globally, child psychologists are sounding the alarm for Thai parents and grandparents, urging vigilance about ten specific habits that may signal deeper issues in children and adolescents. New research and expert opinion published this week, including findings featured by Parade and AOL Lifestyle, emphasize that early identification and intervention are critical for a child’s development and long-term well-being.
For Thai readers, this warning comes as childhood mental health takes on new urgency in a rapidly digitizing society, where external pressures and changing family structures can mask or even exacerbate warning signs. In many Thai families, grandparents play a central caregiving role, so understanding these red flags is crucial for all generations sharing responsibility for young ones.
The ten habits child psychologists are begging families not to ignore are: (1) repeated failure to reach developmental milestones, (2) insisting on using the internet privately, (3) excessive screen time, (4) changes in eating patterns, (5) aggressive behaviors, (6) frequent lying, (7) inappropriate language, (8) sleep struggles, (9) chronic nail biting, and (10) suicidal ideation. While these behaviors may seem like “kids being kids,” experts agree that each habit—especially when it is persistent or sudden—should prompt further attention and, if needed, intervention.
“Early detection of behavioral issues such as aggression, irritability, or language delays is key,” said a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in work with children and adolescents in Parade’s coverage. “These concerns must be addressed promptly so they don’t intensify as a child grows.” This principle aligns with findings from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which reports that unchecked behavioral issues can lead to academic struggles, social withdrawal, and increased risk for long-term mental health disorders (AAP).
Developmental milestone delays—such as not speaking by age two, failing to respond to social cues, or regressing in learned skills—are now well-documented early warning signs. The US Centers for Disease Control and Healthychildren.org provide milestone checklists that are useful for parents globally (CDC; Healthychildren.org). Thai parents can compare children’s progress using these resources, considering individual variation while not dismissing sustained stagnation or regression.
Digital behaviors also warrant careful scrutiny. According to a psychologist and mental health director at Hackensack University Medical Center, children who insist on using the internet unsupervised may be subject to risks ranging from exposure to harmful content to falling prey to online predators. This is particularly relevant in Thailand where digital literacy can lag behind children’s access, and “cyber parenting” is less rigorously practiced compared to some Western nations (Bangkok Post). Open communication and firm, age-appropriate boundaries—such as keeping devices in common areas and setting time limits—are strategies experts recommend.
Excessive screen time impacts Thai children similarly as elsewhere. Experts link heavy device use to sleep disruption, increased obesity risk, and social-emotional challenges (AAP Guidelines). Limiting screens during meals, playtime, and especially before bed, is a harm reduction approach endorsed by developmental experts.
Physical health changes, notably appetite shifts—either overeating or significant loss of appetite—can signal underlying distress, anxiety, or eating disorders like those catalogued in the “Thai National Mental Health Survey” (Department of Mental Health). Mental health specialists emphasize direct dialogue and, if needed, professional guidance in addressing these habits.
Aggressive behaviors such as hitting, biting, or prolonged tantrums are emotionally charged red flags. A psychologist highlighted that failures to address these behaviors early can result in entrenched behavioral patterns, which may bleed into adolescent years or result in school disciplinary issues. In Thailand, where “saving face” and avoiding family confrontation are common, such issues sometimes go unaddressed, making professional intervention even more essential.
Habitual lying, though often interpreted as typical childhood mischief, can point to broader issues of trust, fear, or impulsivity, especially if chronic. A senior psychologist at the ADHD & Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute recommends parents model honest communication, avoid interrogative confrontation, and use positive reinforcement to encourage truthfulness.
The rise in inappropriate language—including ableist, racially insensitive, or sexually explicit comments—has become prevalent in text communications among teens. Thai educators report similar trends, especially as children consume more global media content. Experts stress that open discussions about respectful language, alongside parental modeling, are crucial.
Sleep continues to be foundational for healthy development. Inconsistent bedtimes, difficulty falling asleep, or insomnia may be symptoms of deeper stress or anxiety, and prolonged sleep issues are linked with attention and behavior problems in both Thai and international studies (Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry).
Chronic nail biting, seldom seen as a serious health concern, can in fact reflect unresolved anxiety. As one psychologist notes, persistent nail biting—even to the point of bleeding—should prompt assessment for emotional distress.
Perhaps the heaviest warning involves suicidal ideation. Adolescents questioning the value of life are at risk but, importantly, open conversation—far from “planting ideas,” as some fear—has been shown to be protective. Experts recommend listening without judgment, ensuring safety (for example, by securing medications or weapons), and seeking urgent help if immediate risk is identified. For non-emergency situations, Thai families are encouraged to contact the Department of Mental Health or speak with a licensed child psychologist (Mental Health Hotline 1323).
Actions families can take include keeping calm and avoiding punitive reactions; using books to foster discussion about difficult topics (several experts recommend storybooks such as “Hands are Not for Hitting” by Martine Agassi, and “The Color Monster” by Ana Llenas); tackling one problematic habit at a time; and seeking professional help as soon as persistent or severe issues emerge. Thai families may also benefit from play and art therapy, which are valuable for children less able to express themselves verbally—a modality gaining traction among Bangkok-based therapists.
Historically, Thai society has placed strong emphasis on harmonious family relationships and avoiding confrontation. But as mental health stigma gradually recedes, especially in urban centers, the importance of early intervention is being recognized—a process mirrored in education reforms and public health messaging over the past decade (World Bank). For rural families and ethnic communities, additional cultural and logistical barriers may remain; resources like government-run health clinics and mobile mental health units play a critical role in closing these gaps.
Looking ahead, experts urge families to stay informed as global and Thai mental health research continues to advance. The digital landscape will only expand, and so will the potential complexities of childhood emotional development. Prompt recognition of concerning habits, ongoing education, and breaking the taboo of mental health conversations will be essential, both to individual children’s outcomes and to broader community well-being.
For practical next steps, Thai caregivers are encouraged to (1) observe children closely for persistence or escalation in any of the listed habits, (2) engage in open, nonjudgmental discussion about development and digital life, (3) utilize checklists from reputable sources like the CDC or Thailand’s Department of Mental Health, (4) establish healthy, loving routines around sleep and meals, (5) restrict and supervise screen time and online interactions, and (6) reach out to mental health professionals early, not just in crisis situations.
By refusing to turn a blind eye to these warning signs, Thai families can foster environments that promote resilience, well-being, and stronger intergenerational bonds in a changing world. For more resources, visit the Department of Mental Health Thailand, or consult local community doctors and school counselors.
Sources: AOL Lifestyle, CDC Milestones, Healthychildren.org, American Academy of Pediatrics, Bangkok Post, Department of Mental Health Thailand