From the Research
To stop a 6-year-old from biting fingernails, it is essential to address the underlying causes of the habit, such as anxiety, boredom, or stress, and provide a comprehensive treatment approach that includes behavioral therapy and positive reinforcement, as suggested by the most recent study 1.
Treatment Approach
The treatment of nail biting, also known as onychophagia, requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves social, psychiatric, dermatologic, and dental care 1. The following strategies can be employed to help a 6-year-old stop biting their fingernails:
- Apply a bitter-tasting nail polish to create an unpleasant taste when fingers are put in the mouth
- Identify triggers for the habit and address these underlying causes
- Keep the child's nails trimmed short and offer positive reinforcement when they avoid nail biting
- Provide alternative activities for fidgety hands, such as stress balls or fidget toys
- Avoid scolding or punishing, as this can increase anxiety and worsen the habit
Medication and Therapy
If the habit persists despite these efforts, especially if it causes bleeding or infection, consult a pediatrician who might recommend behavioral therapy or medication trials of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or N-acetylcysteine 1. A study on the efficacy of SSRIs and SNRIs in anxiety disorders found that higher doses of SSRIs within the therapeutic range are associated with greater treatment benefit, whereas higher doses of SNRIs are not 2.
Quality of Life
It is crucial to prioritize the child's quality of life and overall well-being when addressing the nail biting habit. Proper nail hygiene remains a mainstay in the prevention of complications of chronic nail biting, and additional supportive measures, such as self-motivational novels and television episodes, can help children learn coping mechanisms 1.