Do you feel that your child has “switched” genders as far as what they enjoy doing? Is your oldest a little tyrant towards the younger siblings and others? Dr. Leman answers these questions on today’s episode with his usual wit and wisdom.
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Question #1 Jessica:
Jessica’s 5 year-old son has been doing lots of girly things and has a fetish with women’s hair since watching Frozen 2 years ago. Do we intervene? Will he grow out of this?
Dr. Leman’s Answer:
This may be a stage, but this sounds like Dysphoria.
There are many things we don’t understand, and this is one of them.
Dysphoria is when one identifies with the opposite sex.
Often this first shows up at around the age of 3. The Frozen movie may have just been coincidental in his life at that time.
So, you are wondering, WHAT DO WE DO?
1. Love your son
2. Appreciate who he is
3. Keep your relationship intact
4. You may consider homeschooling him to keep him in a safe environment
5. Find a local support group for yourself
Know that he will be very resistant to change. Keep loving him as he is.
Question #2 Sherri:
I have a 6 year-old daughter who is bossy over her 3 year old sister as well as the kids on the playground. How do I keep her personality strong, but stop the bossiness?
Dr. Leman’s Answer:
When she starts ragging on sister, work her to death! Put her to work cleaning the kitchen, the bathroom, and anywhere else until it is spotless.
You might try this conversation with her:
“You have to listen to Mommy…
You love to tell people what to do. If you keep this up, kids won’t like you.”
Or, encourage her to try this:
Ask the other kids, “What do you want to play with?”
Role play with her so she can practice some new lines.
Play, “I’m the boss of you” with her. Listen to my podcast to hear how to play this little game!