6.0: What Does Psychology Say?
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Seyoun has noticed a difference in her son Hwan since he started attending a local preschool. Once friendly and forthcoming, Hwan has become more hesitant around other preschoolers, almost nervous of the other children, though he still seems happy to play with them when they approach him.
Given that she and her parents are immigrants, Seyoun wonders whether speaking Korean at home or being among the few Asian Americans in her neighborhood has influenced the way Hwan sees himself. She also wonders how living with his grandparents, who are stricter and more old-fashioned than other families in their neighborhood, has influenced Hwan’s perceptions of relationships and communication with others.
Hwan’s self-conscious behavior has some benefits. He seems especially receptive to initiation from other children and can play cooperatively when others lead the way. Seyoun notices that her son is also less aggressive than some of the other children she meets, and she wonders whether that behavior is associated with her minimizing his screen time and access to violent cartoon shows.
Seyoun has several questions about this stage of development:
This chapter will help you explore the social and emotional world of preschoolers, children aged 3 to 6.