Glossary / Lexicon

Withdrawn-rejected children refer to a sub-group of rejected children who are usually passive, socially anxious, socially unskilled, and insensitive to peer-group expectations..

Withdrawn-rejected children are those who exhibit social withdrawal and experience rejection or exclusion from their peers. These children tend to be shy, introverted, and anxious, and may struggle to make and maintain friendships. They may also be more prone to negative emotions such as sadness and loneliness.

Examples of behaviors exhibited by withdrawn-rejected children include:

1. Avoiding social interactions: Withdrawn-rejected children may avoid social interactions with their peers, choosing to spend time alone or engaging in solitary activities.

2. Lack of assertiveness: These children may struggle to assert themselves in social situations, making it difficult for them to express their needs or desires.

3. Difficulty making friends: Withdrawn-rejected children may have difficulty making friends, as their withdrawn behavior and lack of assertiveness can make it difficult for them to initiate and maintain social relationships.

4. Negative self-perceptions: These children may have negative perceptions of themselves and their social abilities, which can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem and negative emotions.

5. School difficulties: Withdrawn-rejected children may struggle academically, as their social difficulties can interfere with their ability to focus and learn in the classroom.

Similar constructs to withdrawn-rejected children in psychology include:

1. Social anxiety: Social anxiety involves an intense fear or discomfort in social situations, which can lead to social withdrawal and avoidance.

2. Avoidant personality disorder: Avoidant personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by social withdrawal and a fear of rejection or criticism.

3. Selective mutism: Selective mutism is a condition in which children are unable to speak in certain social situations, often due to anxiety or fear.

4. Loneliness: Loneliness involves feelings of isolation and disconnection from others, which can be experienced by children who are withdrawn and rejected by their peers.

In conclusion, withdrawn-rejected children are those who exhibit social withdrawal and experience rejection or exclusion from their peers. These children may struggle to make and maintain friendships, and may experience negative emotions such as sadness and loneliness. Understanding related constructs such as social anxiety, avoidant personality disorder, selective mutism, and loneliness can provide further insight into the nature and impact of withdrawn-rejected children on their social and emotional well-being. Early intervention and support for these children can be critical in helping them develop social skills and relationships that can lead to better outcomes in childhood and beyond.