Hair pulling

[Peacefulmuma]

Hi there. I have a daughter with social communication delays who is 3. She is pulling her hair out! She’s now started to balding visibly on one side of her head. Does anyone else have any experience of this? Her triggers are boredom or tiredness if that’s helps? Image attached.

[Redpanda5]

Wow this must be so difficult with her doing this at such a young age. My daughter has done both skin picking and hair pulling, however she was elementary school age at the time.

My best advice is to seek help from a child psychologist who is specialized BFRB (body focused repetitive behaviors). Usually this information can be found in their bios. It is imperative to find a specialist. They will know the age-appropriate treatment plan for your daughter. Best to you!

[RachelModerator Moderator]

Hello Peacefulmuma ,

It does not look like it from the photo, but is there any chance your little one could be experiencing some physical discomfort that is causing her to pull her hair out at all? A change in shampoo etc. Is she also doing it in her sleep?

My suggestion, if you haven't already tried, would be to offer an alternative sensory experience that may defer her need to perform this behaviour.

google.com/search?q=koosh+b...

This is the sort of thing I am thinking of. She could try a toy like this as long as she is supervised at all times with it. It may replicate some of the sensations she is seeking.

I hope this helps or some other parents will be able to share their experiences and ideas with you.

Best Wishes Rachel