Developmental problem?

Hello, My son has turned 7 last May and I was hoping by reaching this age he would begin to outgrow his social problems but it seems to have gotten worse. It seems to me like he may have externalizing problems when it comes to his self-esteem. This is because he always believes that it is sombody elses fault when somthing doesnt go the way he wants it to.He also goes up to strangers or friends that he has just met and out of the blue will tell them somthing wonderful about himself and always moves the converstion so the focus is on himself. This has really hurt friendships that seemed so promising in the beginng but the other child will eventually get frustrated and not want to play with him anymore. He also has trouble controlling his emotions and will cry (very loudly and dramatically) when somthing doesnt go right and gives up easily. He also insists on using baby talk by saying he has to go tinki (when he has to use the bathroom) or by saying daddy in a high pitched baby voice as well as other behavior that is more appropriate for a three to four year old. I have been working with him as far as ignorng the baby talk or gently correcting him also I have been giving him more responsibilities to raise his self confidence. I have been making a little progress but his behaviour is really hurting his relationships and I really want to help him. Hes a caring child under it all and I want to help him to be a happier and more adjusted boy and I want him to be able to make friends when he starts 1st grade this year.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

At the very least your son is showing delayed social and emotional development. This warrants evaluation and it would be wise to arrange this. The most prudent approach would be an evaluation by a developmental pediatrician, who will be able to assess your son's status in the various major spheres of development: motor (gross and fine), social, emotional and cognitive.