Body Language Expert Explains How to Spot Distress in Young Children

A body language expert is offering guidance to parents on how to identify signs of distress in young children, particularly in light of a disturbing abuse case in Ariel. Maayan Bashan emphasizes that these observations are not a substitute for formal psychological or psychiatric diagnosis but rather a way to notice significant behavioral patterns.

Bashan advises parents to look for changes in their child's physiological behavior, stressing that parents know their children best and are therefore best equipped to notice deviations from the norm. She clarifies that not every sign of distress necessarily indicates abuse, but when in doubt, thorough investigation is crucial.

For children aged two to four, who are less able to mask their feelings, Bashan points to several key indicators. These include heightened muscle tone (hypertonia) or a 'freeze' response, involuntary micro-expressions of fear or apprehension, and automatic self-soothing mechanisms like constant touching of the face or arms. She also highlights a downward-left eye movement as a potential sign of processing painful emotions or negative internal dialogue, and sudden changes in sleep patterns, such as clinging to the bed's edge for a sense of security.

Bashan recounts an anecdote where a child exhibited subtle signs of distress, which her mother initially overlooked, only to later discover the child was suffering severe bullying at school. The expert urges parents to pay close attention to their children's body language, especially when asking about their day, and to investigate any concerns rather than dismissing them due to discomfort or reluctance to accuse caregivers.