Reverse Psychology in paediatric:
Reverse psychology plays a very crucial role in pediatric practice.
In pediatric OPD, building rapport with the patient is extremely important. Convincing children for examination, medicine intake, vaccination, or procedures can often be difficult because children commonly resist direct instructions due to fear, anxiety, curiosity, or a desire for independence.
In many such situations, reverse psychology becomes a helpful communication tool.
How it helps:
• For Examination
• While giving Medicine
• For vaccination or Procedure
• For psychological disease conditions
Benefits:
• Reduce anxiety and oppose behaviour
• Playful smooth interaction
• Increase Cooperation
• Helps during examination
• Treatment compliance
But Should Avoid:
• Being unethical
• manipulation or humiliation
• Use in serious consent-related situations
Research says:
That children often resist direct instructions during medical examination or procedures. A study in preschool children found that using reverse psychology — such as playful challenges or indirect suggestions — improved cooperation more than normal instructions or simple praise.
Children who experienced this approach:
• cooperated more easily
• completed tasks faster
• seemed more comfortable and engaged.
Researchers explain that children like to feel independent and in control. When communication feels playful instead of forceful, they become more willing to participate.
“What do you feel-Is psychology the secret to paediatric cooperation rather than pressure?”
MBH/PS