Research Shows Having Imaginary Friends Beneficial To Young Children

by Myra Turner | More from this Blogger

Whew, What a relief! I was beginning to think there was something wrong with my child. You see lately he has gotten into the habit of blaming his imaginary friend for everything. "It wasn't me, it was my imaginary friend" he echoes when I asked him the other day who took all the toys out of the toy box and spread them all over the floor. But now I feel so much better. The reason? I just read about a report that says having imaginary friends can actually be beneficial to a young child.

In a study conducted at the University of Oregon in Eugene and the University of Washington in Seattle, researchers surveyed 152 preschoolers, ages 3 and 4 and then followed up with them three years later. What they found is that 65% of the study participants admitted to having an imaginary friend at some point. Some had multiple friends. The report also showed that school age children were just as likely to have imaginary friends as preschoolers (31% and 28%, respectfully).

According to the report, having imaginary friends is associated with advanced social understanding. Imaginary friends also offer companionship, entertainment as well as a shoulder to cry on, according to the lead author of the study, Dr. Marjorie Taylor. Having imaginary friends are also a great way for children to practice not only their social skills but conflict resolution as well.

Despite all the positive information obtained from the study, the researchers also caution parents that having an imaginary friend should not substitute for the read deal. Parents should also look for any changes in their child's behavior and if the child does not like spending time with others and acts withdrawn or anxious they should consider talking to the child's pediatrician or a child psychologist.

Learn more about Myra Turner

I'm a proud mid-life single mom with an active seven-year-old son, Tyler.

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