Updated · General parent information from Inclusive Therapy Centre. This page is awaiting individual clinical review.
Look beyond how much a child talks
Some children enjoy listening, prefer small groups or need time with unfamiliar people. Introversion describes a preference for less social stimulation; shyness can involve feeling hesitant around others. Neither alone establishes a disorder. Social anxiety involves distress around possible scrutiny or embarrassment, sometimes with substantial avoidance.
A talkative child can still have strong fears in certain settings, such as eating in front of classmates or presenting work. A quiet child may not be anxious at all. How quickly a child warms up is not a diagnostic test. Volume and sociability are poor substitutes for asking about the experience.
Ask what fear is preventing
Notice the child’s wishes as well as their behaviour. They may want to join a game but expect humiliation, repeatedly worry about a classroom answer or feel unwell before a social event.
- What does the child expect others to think or do?
- How much time is spent worrying before or after an interaction?
- Are friendships, attendance, asking for help or ordinary activities being restricted?
- Does the distress continue even when others assume the situation went well?
Consider other explanations too
Bullying, language difficulties, sensory overload, selective mutism and developmental differences may also affect participation. These can occur alongside anxiety. Avoid deciding on a diagnosis from a list of signs or treating a genuine unsafe setting as something the child must simply tolerate.
A qualified professional can explore the pattern, duration and impact. Bring examples across different places and ask the school what they observe without asking teachers to diagnose the child.
Help without trying to change personality
Listen to the child’s goals and avoid teasing, public pressure or comparisons with outgoing siblings. If fear is limiting everyday life, seek an assessment rather than waiting for the child to become more confident with age.
Treatment may include age-adapted cognitive behavioural therapy and supported practice, chosen with an appropriately trained clinician. The aim is more choice and participation, not turning every quiet child into a public performer.
Sources and further reading
These sources support general information. The appointment questions and planning examples are discussion aids, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. International service arrangements may differ from those in Pakistan.
For local care, fees and scope, read social anxiety: support in Multan.
Social anxiety: your next step in Multan
Discuss the situations your child avoids and the activities they would like to take part in. Ask what support can be offered alongside school or family changes.
First consultation: Rs 1,500 · up to 50 minutes. Model Town, Multan · Mon–Fri, 2 PM – 6 PM. Ongoing therapy is planned and priced separately.
Our psychology service works with children and teenagers aged 3–16. We do not prescribe medication or provide emergency psychiatric care.
Contact Muhammad Salman Afzal, clinical and child psychologist, first to confirm the appropriate clinician and service. How fees work.