Seven-year-old Aarav has refused to go to school for the last two months. Each morning, when his mother gets ready to leave for work, he cries loudly, kicks and holds on to her saree. At home he will not stay in a room by himself and follows his mother from the kitchen to the balcony. He also refuses to go to a cousin's birthday party unless she goes with him. His teacher reports that he is a bright boy who plays happily with other children once his mother is in sight. The family doctor finds no physical illness.
Which psychological disorder is most likely shown by Aarav's behaviour?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Separation anxiety disorder
Option (1) Agoraphobia — Incorrect. Agoraphobia is a fear of entering unfamiliar situations, so many people with it are afraid of leaving their home. Aarav goes out happily when his mother is with him. His fear is about being away from her.
Option (2) Separation anxiety disorder — Correct. Separation anxiety disorder is fear and anxiety about separation from attachment figures to a degree not suited to the child's age. Aarav's crying when his mother leaves, refusing school and following her from room to room are its typical signs in children.
Option (3) Social anxiety disorder — Incorrect. Social anxiety disorder is intense, disabling fear and embarrassment when dealing with others. Aarav plays happily with other children once his mother is in sight, so meeting people is not what upsets him.
Option (4) Generalised anxiety disorder — Incorrect. Generalised anxiety disorder is prolonged, vague fear not attached to any object, with constant worry, hypervigilance and motor tension. Aarav's fear has one clear focus, his mother leaving, and he is calm when she is near.
NCERT (2026-27): “One day while driving home, Deb felt his … “Activity 4.3 going to school alone, are fearful of entering new situations, and cling to and shadow their parents’ every move. To avoid separation, children with SAD may fuss, scream, throw severe tantrums, or make suicidal gestures.” |