In this module, we delve into the intricate emotional layers that often lie beneath the surface of anxiety. Based on psychoanalytic insights, this session aims to help parents and caregivers understand that anxiety is not just a standalone reaction to stressors, but a veil masking deeper, often unresolved emotions. Through this exploration, you will learn to guide your child in recognizing the underlying feelingsโsuch as helplessness, anger, or past traumasโthat contribute to their anxiety, ultimately fostering emotional healing and self-awareness.
Causes of Anxiety – Root Emotions
Understanding the psychoanalytic distinction between traumatic anxiety and neurotic anxiety in children and teens.
Common Pain Points
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Distinguishing Between Traumatic and Neurotic Anxiety
Parents often find it difficult to distinguish between anxiety caused by immediate, overwhelming situations and anxiety rooted in past traumatic experiences.
Understanding the Role of Defense Mechanisms
Many parents are unaware of how children and teens use defense mechanisms, such as avoidance or dissociation, to cope with anxiety. These mechanisms can prevent children from processing the emotions linked to their experiences.
Navigating Anxiety in Complex Social Situations
Anxiety often manifests during key social moments, whether at school or in relationships. Parents may not fully understand how past experiences of bullying or trauma influence their childโs current fears and behaviors.
A word from our Families
I am so appreciative of the Pathformers initiative!! In conversations with friends who have children, we are always questioning whether some behaviors are normal, worrisome, or not. I am struck by how very little information pediatricians give to parents on mental health and what is normal for children to do and when you need to seek help. Pathformers gives us a place to turn to answer those questions. It provides families with research-based and trustworthy information to help with their kidsโ mental health.
Patricia and Aldo B.
I had the chance to check out Pathformers on my phone and computer, and let me tell you, the computer version really blew me away. The site’s beautiful aesthetic and diverse family photos and videos really capture the richness of family life. The topics they talk about are super helpful, and navigating the site is a breeze, especially with the filters that stay put until you change them. Dr. Klein explains things in a way that’s easy to get, which I think will hit home for a lot of people, not just parents like us. I’m actually pretty excited to tell my colleagues about it. We’re always looking for meaningful ‘lunch and learns’, and I really think Pathformers could be a big hit with us and others.
Jamie and Kevin T.
Module Benefits
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Learn the Psychoanalytic Roots of Anxiety
This module introduces the psychoanalytic framework, providing insights into how traumatic (reality-based) anxiety overwhelms a child in immediate, stressful situations, while neurotic (signal) anxiety stems from past trauma and defense mechanisms.
Recognize When Defense Mechanisms Are At Play
Parents will gain a deeper understanding of how children and teens rely on defense mechanisms, such as dissociation or avoidance, and how these behaviors signal deeper anxiety that needs to be addressed.
Gain Practical Tools to Help Your Child Navigate Their Anxiety
With a better understanding of traumatic and neurotic anxiety, youโll be able to help your child process past traumas, break patterns of avoidance, and build healthier responses to their fears.
Help Steer Your Childโs Development
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