When a child encounters something he or she does not want…
“When a child encounters something he or she does not want, that child has all kinds of maneuvers to avoid it, such as crying, hiding, or fighting. . . Unless we are taught to face our problems directly and work through them, the pattern of avoidance will be repeated; it can be a natural, accepted way to act.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Avoidance behavior in children shows how unaddressed problems become habitual, leading to repeated patterns unless confronted directly.
In simple terms: Kids avoid unwanted things; without facing problems, avoidance repeats.
Key Takeaway
Teach direct problem‑facing to break avoidance cycles.
Themes
psychology
development
behavior
resilience
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
advice
educational
psychological
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- therapy
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
avoidance
coping mechanisms
learning
emotional regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we encourage safe confrontation of discomfort?
- What supports help replace avoidance with constructive action?
A Different Perspective
Avoidance can sometimes protect from immediate distress, making change harder.