Identity crisis is usually discussed in relation to teenagers. But even at 10, a child asks important questions: "Who am I?", "What is my place in the class?", "Am I cool or a loser?". This is a pre-adolescent crisis related to the beginning of separation from parents and entering the world of peers. We tell you about the symptoms and ways to help.

Where Do Doubts Come From

At 10, a child's world expands. There are idols from TikTok, authorities from class. The child compares himself to others: "I don't have an iPhone, so I'm poor," "I can't play football, so I'm a wimp." Also, physiological changes (the beginning of puberty) come into play: some have grown, while others are still small.

Symptoms of Identity Crisis

The child tries on different roles: today he's a goth, tomorrow a sportsman. He often changes hobbies, friends, and clothing style. He's afraid of looking silly, conforms to the majority (for example, listens to the same music as everyone). He's shy around parents with friends and is very sensitive to criticism. He may lie about himself (make up a rich biography).

What Parents Can Do

Don't mock his interests, even if "it will pass." Expand his circle of "experiments": take him to different clubs, allow him to try new things. Support him when he brags, but don't expose him. Don't put labels on him: "You're our humanist," "You're always a nerd." Tell him about your own childhood doubts.

Important: an identity crisis at 10 is normal. If it drags on until 12 and is accompanied by depression, it's worth consulting a psychologist.

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