Fear of Public Speaking-Social Anxiety-“

A succinct discussion by Behavioral Science and Management expert Dr Kulneet Suri, Sr Director (Unison), and Harvard University Professor and Alumna

Fear of public speaking, non-participation in peer group activities, stammering, loss of appetite are some of the initial symptoms of Social Anxiety which can lead to severe repercussions if not treated professionally. Parents play a pivotal role in fostering growth mindset patterns as early as childhood so that they can seek answers, be comfortable in asking questions and reasoning, develop the ability to understand their abilities, are able to forward think post setbacks and revive themselves post uncertain and challenging times.

Making use of the Mindsets and how and why a broad set of beliefs forms the framework of our decisions is very important in understanding the behavioural responses of the children, teenagers. The key to progressive thinking and mindset relates to how we interpret the struggles we face. Does this mean we as individuals do not have the talent to be successful and competitive, and should therefore move on to choose other options, or can these challenges be tackled with consistent effort and informed decisions. Parents and Teachers with a Growth Mindset are able to better shape the mindsets of their children because they encourage, applaud talent, and effort. There are potential benefits of having a growth mindset and Neuroscience has answers that help explain why having a growth mindset is helpful and how it can shape the future for effective and better decision making.

The RED FLAGS: Many prominent researchers have researched that most of the students give up when they struggle-they believe they do not have the right talent to be successful. Mindset theory explains learning and struggling go hand in hand and challenges hone our skills. Growth Mindset looks through the lens with a positive frame of mind for oneself and others. Social anxiety can cause children and teenagers to set themselves away from Group activities, they shun participation and avoid talking to people. They find comfort in aloofness. If this is not treated in time the children/teenagers can resort to Drug Abuse, and even Suicide.
The influence of parental behaviour on children’s socialization and the acquisition of behavioural patterns helps deal with Social Anxiety. Also how parents’ behaviour and values shape children’s attitudes, beliefs, and social interactions helps develop positive and negative behavioural patterns in a child which can be a lifetime imprint on the way they make decisions. The importance of parental involvement in monitoring and guiding children’s social activities especially in the formative years helps children develop positive habits and security and can help tackle red flags if any.

Involving the child in family discussions and allowing them to speak helps in positive role modelling by parents. Keeping the talk positive and using problem solving skills to help the child deal with conflicts in a calm and balanced way will help the child emote the behaviour. Respectful behaviour towards the child by role modelling respectful behaviour in your own relationships at home and elsewhere helps the child role model for respectful behaviour. Similarly healthy food choices and activities for physical development and brain development can be fostered by parents if they involve the child in taking healthy meals together, involving the child in a sports activity together with parents like biking, walking. The decision of the parents to make education interesting can build a positive mindset for the child to attend studies and encourage participation. Parents encouraging child participation helps in identifying any signs of mental and or behavioural disturbance-which could hinder the social-emotional participation by a child in daily activities.

The influence of teacher sensitivity and responsiveness on children’s mental and emotional regulation and behavioural adjustment plays a vital role in behavioural response from children and helps them overcome social anxiety. When children are presented with the opportunities to express their emotions they become resilient, emotionally aware and socially responsive.