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Child Behavior (Expert Forum)
Masterbation - 4 year old boy
Answered by
Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Crisis Intervention
Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
This forum is for questions and support regarding child behavior issues such: Child Discipline (behavior management), Normal Child Development, Parent-Child Communications, Social Development
Masterbation - 4 year old boy
by danz, Sep 09, 2004 12:00AM
I have a 4 year old son who has been touching his penis while looking at/touching someone's feet. Is this normal? We have been very open and verbal about him touching himself, that it is normal, and that he should do it in private, etc... Several people have told us that they were suprised by this behavior. Should we be concerned? Thank you-
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D., Sep 10, 2004 12:00AM
, Sep 10, 2004 12:00AM
There is no reason to be alarmed by his behavior, but do continue to establish a clear guideline about his touching himself. You are doing the right thing by insisting that the behavior must occur privately, never in the presence of other people. Really the only caution about masturbation in young children is when they are insecure and overly rely on the behavior to comfort themselves. This is not likely to occur if they are experiencing a normal range of activities, contact with peers and a satisfying life in the family.
Member Comments (1)
by roma10, Jun 23, 2008 10:43AM
A related discussion, Autistic Toddler boy rubbing against a pillow was started.
