Dethroned Prince Syndrome is a psychological concept that refers to a phenomenon observed in children who are affected by the arrival of a new brother or sister to the family. This situation usually generates in the older child a series of emotions and behaviors that reflect their difficulty in accepting and adapting to the changes that the arrival of a new member to the family implies. Understanding this syndrome, its causes and consequences, is essential to be able to prevent it and address it appropriately.
Origin and characteristics of Dethroned Prince Syndrome
The term "Dethroned Prince Syndrome" was coined by the French-Argentine psychoanalyst Marie Lise Labonté, who observed that many children experienced emotional and behavioral difficulties after the birth of a younger sibling. This syndrome is characterized by the feeling of loss of status and priority that the older child experiences when seeing that the attention and care of his parents are directed towards the newcomer.
Children who suffer from the syndrome Dethroned Prince can manifest a wide range of behaviors, ranging from sadness, frustration and anger, to regression in their development, that is, regressing in stages already surpassed, such as re-wetting the bed or sucking their thumb. Furthermore, it is common for these children to seek the attention of their parents in a negative way, through tantrums, disobedience or disruptive behavior.
Causes of Dethroned Prince Syndrome
The causes of the Syndrome of the Dethroned Prince are usually related to the child's perception of the arrival of a new brother or sister. For the older child, this situation can be interpreted as a threat to his position of privilege and the exclusive relationship he had with his parents. The feeling of rivalry, jealousy and the perception of loss of affection and attention can trigger negative emotions in the child, leading to the manifestation of this syndrome.
In addition, factors such as the child's age, temperament , the way in which parents manage the arrival of the new sibling, the family dynamics and the emotional support that the older child receives can influence the appearance and intensity of Dethroned Prince Syndrome.
Consequences of the Syndrome Dethroned Prince Syndrome
Dethroned Prince Syndrome can have significant repercussions on the emotional, cognitive and social well-being of the affected child. Firstly, it can generate feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem and anxiety in the child, perceiving that they have lost the love and attention of their parents. This can translate into difficulties in establishing healthy relationships with others, as well as an impact on their academic performance and emotional development.
In addition, if Dethroned Prince Syndrome is not adequately addressed, It can persist over time and lead to more serious emotional and behavioral problems, such as depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems with others or difficulties regulating emotions.
Prevention and management of Mood Syndrome Dethroned Prince
Communication and prior preparation
One of the most effective strategies to prevent Dethroned Prince Syndrome is open communication and prior preparation of children for the arrival of a new brother or sister. It is important that parents talk to the older child about the arrival of the baby, explaining in a simple and clear way how the family dynamic is going to change and what implications it will have for him.
It is essential to involve the child in the preparations for the arrival of the new member, involving them in the decoration of the room, the choice of the name or the purchase of the necessary items for the baby. In this way, the child will feel included and will be able to anticipate the arrival of the brother or sister in a more positive way.
Individualized attention and positive reinforcement
Once the new member of the family family comes home, it is important that parents maintain individualized attention towards the older child, dedicating quality moments to them, listening to them, showing interest in their activities and positively reinforcing their achievements. It is essential that the child feels that he continues to be loved and valued, despite the arrival of the new brother or sister.
It is also important to praise and reward the child's positive behaviors, as well as establish clear routines and predictable ones that provide security and stability in a time of many changes. Positive reinforcement and individualized attention contribute to strengthening the child's self-esteem and reducing the perception of threat that the arrival of a new sibling can generate.
Promotion of empathy and collaboration
To prevent Dethroned Prince Syndrome, it is important to foster empathy and collaboration between siblings from an early age. Parents can promote activities in which children work together, support each other, and learn to resolve conflicts constructively. Teaching them to share, take turns and collaborate on daily tasks helps strengthen the bond between siblings and reduce conflicts and feelings of rivalry.
Seek professional help when necessary
If, despite following these recommendations, the child continues to show signs of emotional distress or maladaptive behaviors, it is important to seek professional help. A child psychologist or family therapist can provide guidance and support to both the child and the parents to appropriately address the emotional difficulties that may arise as a result of Dethroned Prince Syndrome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dethroned Prince Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that affects many children after the arrival of a new brother or sister to the family. The feeling of loss of status, rivalry, jealousy and the perception of lack of attention can trigger negative emotions in the child, giving rise to manifestations of emotional and behavioral discomfort.
To prevent and address the Syndrome of the Dethroned Prince, it is essential to encourage communication, prior preparation, individualized attention, positive reinforcement, empathy, collaboration and seek professional help when necessary. Parents play a key role in managing this situation, providing love, attention and support to their children and promoting a harmonious and balanced family environment.
With the appropriate accompaniment and emotional support, children can overcome Dethroned Prince Syndrome and strengthen their coping skills, self-esteem and interpersonal relationships, facilitating their healthy and balanced development.