Neglect feeds kids’ ‘Skin Hunger’

Hyderabad: “Skin Hunger” is catching up in Hyderabad among children in the age group of six to 14, who have working parents.

More than 80 cases in the past three months of a similar psychological condition have been reported, wherein kids show signs of causing damage to their skin, by either cutting their wrists furiously or burning themselves, as a result of neglect from parents. Such children exhibit suicidal symptoms, say experts.

Psychiatrists and paediatricians claim that children need a lot of affection from parents, like cuddling or some form of warm touch, in their growing years.

“Life has become so mechanical now that parents have no time for their children. Kids are left to with caretakers or servants which is why they get very possessive about the time that they get to spend with their parents. And when they don’t get what they seek in those few hours, they start exhibiting extreme traits…either too much anger or depression, and they develop skin hunger,” said Purnima Nagaraja, consultant psychiatrist, Dhriti Centre For Psychological Wellness

“Skin Hunger is a need for healthy touch, which is not sexual. It is a real need for some kids, especially when their parents are away for a really long time. The wait results in them portraying more shocking traits like continuously trying to harm themselves, slitting their wrists or sometimes even burning their fingers to get attention from their parents,” Ms Nagaraja continued.

More than 65-70 per cent children exhibit a similar condition for the need for affection, which is not met.

“Parents must understand that the needs of children are changing and they need a reality check. Kids these days read a lot, know the deal with kids in other countries and are want to be a part of global trends. In such situations, to bring them up as confident individuals with stable personalities, children need quality and quantity care.  It is important for parents to keep a check on their behavioural patterns and they must be the ‘go-to’ person for their children,” said psychiatrist Geeta Hari.