Eye contact

My daughter is a healthy 3.5 year old, but unless forced she will not keep eye contact with anyone.  She intentionally averts her eyes when someone is speaking to her, and when she is speaking to others.  I have to tell her to look me in the eyes with her eyes when we are having a discussion.  I don't know if this is abnormal.  Should I be concerned?  What could the cause of this behaviour be, and what should we do to correct it?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

If she is otherwise developing in a normal fashion, you needn't worry. The behavior is likely due to a shy temperament. You can gently have her establish eye contact when you speak with her, but be sure not to be too stern about this. With practice she will likely do better, but shy children have a hard time with this.