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7 year old son lacks affection

2 replies

Al1234567 · 18/09/2023 08:22

Hello! I have a 7 year old boy who is very affectionate with myself and his dad (we’re separated) but never with anyone else. Grandparents, cousins, friends etc… he never hugs or kisses them, refuses and has done since he was very little.

I’ve just had a daughter (3 weeks old) and he was SO excited that he was going to be getting a sibling, however he refuses to hold or kiss her ever. He sometimes shows a tiny bit of affection by stroking her head or saying, she’s cute. But that’s it.

we got him a present from the baby (which he loves, more than the baby it seems) he’s been bought presents from everyone that’s bought the baby a present. I’ve managed to find some time to take him to the play park just me and him, we’ve had movie nights and time just me him and the baby. He’s just not interested.

he has a little cousin that he LOVES, he loves playing with him and I’m hoping that when my daughter is older and can give him
something back he’ll be more interested, but I’ve just realised that his cousin will always try to give him a kiss hello or goodbye and he refuses it.

anyone else had this ? Super super affectionate with parents but no one else ? Including siblings ! I just feel like c’mon , she’s been here 3 weeks, show some interest and love !

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Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Giveituphq · 18/09/2023 08:29

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Al1234567 · 18/09/2023 08:41

I’m a pretty affectionate person and always hug and kiss people hello, especially my family.

I’ve never forced him to kiss or hug anyone and respect his boundaries. He also often doesn’t say hello or goodbye to people which I don’t allow as it’s rude, so we often argue about that.

but since his sister arrived I had expected him to show her affection - but nothing. He doesn’t want to hold her or kiss her. I’ve asked why and he said he’s scared but won’t elaborate on what he’s scared of. I think he’s just saying that to give a reason and perhaps he doesn’t have the reason. Just wondering if anyone else had this with their kid and their siblings ?

do your kids show each other affection?

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