Extreme paranoia-----disorder or normal?

[Paranoiaextreme]

I have a question on the development of my younger brother. He is nine years old and extremely talented in everything he does, especially in the musical field; winning awards and competitions. His performance in school is slightly above average sometimes mostly straight A's. He is shy at first, but when he gets to know someone he is very energetic. however, he is very spoiled and attached to my grandma. He has this dear, paranoia of ghost of monsters . He is so paranoid that he will not go to the bathroom by himself, take a shower by himself, nor will he sleep by himself. I am extremely curious because i used and still am extremely paranoid about "things" attacking me. I feared washing my face or shampooing when in the shower. Also when I'm running on the treadmill, i can't help but stare back every ten seconds, fearing something might attack me. Is this some sort of genetic disorder or something?

[margypops]

Could it be a learned behavior, has someone older and closer had the same fears, we often copy these kind of things, children do learn from their parents. ,is his Granma a concerned person, as he is close to her. Has he seen any scary movies especially at a young age? I do think most of us at some time in life especially when we are young have 'Foibles' and you outgrow them. Good Luck

[jdtm]

Another possibility - GAD - generalized anxiety disorder.  You might wish to google the phrase "GAD and children" or "children and anxiety disorders" or similar words/phrases to read more about this issue.  If you think this could the problem, write back and we will be able to guide you  toward finding help.