When addressing a parent's concern about their child who cries when left alone, what should the PSA provider avoid saying?

In responding to a parent's concern about their child crying when left alone, it's crucial for the Psychological First Aid (PFA) provider to be sensitive and supportive. Suggesting that children cry to manipulate parents can undermine the child's genuine emotional experience and the parent's concern. This statement could lead to feelings of guilt or frustration for the parent and may minimize the child's feelings of distress, which are typically rooted in normal developmental phases like separation anxiety.

Instead, highlighting that it’s common for children to feel separation anxiety, how crying serves as a communication method for their distress, or that children can learn coping mechanisms over time fosters a more understanding and supportive environment. These approaches validate the parent's feelings and recognize the child's natural emotional responses, which are important in reassuring both the parent and child during this developmental stage.