How Scary Is Too Scary?

Introduction

• Written by Steven Schlozman, MD.
• Discusses the topic of how parents can judge the appropriateness of Halloween scares for their children.

Personal Anecdote

• Author recounts a childhood memory of being frightened at a haunted house.
• Realizes his parents made a mistake, but they apologized, which left a positive impact.
• Memories trigger thoughts on how scary experiences can affect children.

Main Question

• "How scary is too scary during the Halloween fright season?"
• There is no clear answer; parents worry about potentially scarring their children.
• Importance of parental judgment on what their kids can handle.

Parental Guidance

• Parents should be cautious about imposing their likes on children.
• Acknowledge mistakes when they occur and apologize to the child.
• Consider developmental and psychological aspects when deciding on scary activities.

Research Insights

• Some entertainment can be traumatizing; others argue scary stories aid development.
• No exhaustive research review, but highlights that the topic has been widely studied.

Guidelines for Halloween Experience

For Younger Children

• Toddlers & School-aged Kids: Prone to magical thinking, often unable to differentiate reality from fantasy.
  • Advisable to use non-scary costumes like cute animals or princesses until they are older.
• School-aged Kids: More likely to enjoy scares but check their comfort level privately.

Adolescence

• Middle School: Focuses on group belonging; may participate in activities to fit in.
  • Parents should check child's genuine interest privately to avoid peer pressure.
• Older Teens: Balance between limits and trust. Often inclined towards "trick" aspects of Halloween.
  • Ensure safety rules: no alcohol, safe driving, no real weapons, curfew adherence.

Conclusion

• Reinforces that parents know best regarding their children's capacity for handling scary situations.
• Encourages active parenting and trusting parental instincts.
• Light-hearted endnote to ensure enough candy is bought for Halloween.

About the Author

• Steven Schlozman is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.