A 15-year-old son, raised by his grandparents, sleeps with a pillow corner in his mouth; is there a psychological issue?

Hello, I'm Mu Rong.

Your child seems to have some fetishistic behavior, but we don't know if it's a fetish. I see your worries and confusion, and I see that your child feels ashamed.

A child's first three years are crucial for their development. During this time, they form an attachment to their mother, who provides them with love and security. If a child doesn't feel secure with their mother, they may turn to other caregivers, like grandparents, for comfort. However, if these caregivers can't provide the same level of security, the child may resort to fetishistic behaviors, using objects to satisfy their need for security.

You said the child was raised by his grandparents. He rarely felt his mother's love. This may have caused his anxiety. He may try to relieve it by grasping and stroking soft items.

If parents or other caregivers give children more hugs, companionship, and games when they are anxious, the children will feel more secure and their fetishistic behavior will decrease.

When the child was young, he was told not to pinch the corners of his quilt. This may have made him cling to objects more. Now he is 15 and going through puberty. His fetishism may be linked to his sexual development.

This isn't enough to say if it's a fetish. If it affects the child, they can go to a hospital for a diagnosis. This will help them understand the child's situation and treat them. What do you think?

The child also seems to lack security and feel ashamed. He needs acceptance and tolerance. Fortunately, he can confide in his grandfather. Perhaps the grandfather can give him security and trust. If conditions permit, try to let the child return to his parents' side.

If that doesn't work, the grandfather can help.

Don't blame him. Explain that his behavior is driven by a need for security. Buy him some books about adolescent development. Fifteen-year-olds can understand cause and effect. Rational analysis can help him understand his own behavior.

Second, get him to exercise more, do hobbies, and use exercise to distract him, relieve anxiety, and give him a sense of satisfaction.

You can try psychological counseling. It seems the child knows what he's doing, so you can try counseling based on what he wants.

I hope this helps.