Why Kids Get Obsessed—And Why It's a Good Thing

Amy and Margaret discuss why kids become intensely obsessed with the things they love—whether it’s dinosaurs, Pokémon, sharks, or Spider-Man—and how those fascinations manifest throughout their childhoods.

They explore the developmental benefits of "intense interests," from mastery and comfort to confidence and identity. They break down when an obsession is typical and when it may need gentle guidance.

Finally, they discuss how to connect with kids through their intense interests—and then use them as bridges to broaden kids' horizons.

Correction! Comedian Sasha Baron-Cohen and psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen are neither siblings (as Amy claims in the episode nor uncle/nephew (as Margaret believed); they are first cousins.

Here are links to some of the resources mentioned in the episode:

• Winnicott, D. W. for The International Journal of Psychoanalysis: Transitional objects and transitional phenomena; a study of the first not-me possession
• Dr. Judy De Loache et al for Developmental Psychology: ⁠Planes, Trains, Automobiles—and Tea Sets: Extremely Intense Interests in Very Young Children⁠
• Lisa Joseph et al for Autism Research: Repetitive behavior and restricted interests in young children with autism: comparisons with controls and stability over 2 years.
• Our episode "Dinosaurs and Trains and Superheroes and Nerf Guns: Boy Obsessions"

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