A reflection tool · Parents

Is your child high reactive?

This is not a test and not a diagnosis – it’s a way to put words to something you may already sense. The ten statements below are drawn from how researchers describe behavioral inhibition. Answer honestly for a calm, ordinary week.

Before you start

Nothing here is sent anywhere – it runs entirely in your browser, and we store none of it. A high score is not a label or a problem to fix; high reactivity is a normal temperament with real strengths. Use the result as a starting point for reflection, not a verdict.

01My child Hesitates or hangs back before joining other children at play.
02My child Becomes upset or cries easily in new, loud, or busy situations.
03My child Clings or stays close to you in unfamiliar places.
04My child Takes a long time to warm up to new people, even friendly ones.
05My child Notices small changes – a moved object, a new smell, a different route.
06My child Watches carefully and proceeds cautiously before trying something new.
07My child Gets overwhelmed and wants to leave stimulating places (parties, malls).
08My child Worries ahead of time, or asks a lot of “what if” questions.
09My child Is sensitive to criticism and takes correction hard.
10My child Is conscientious and genuinely bothered after breaking a rule.
0 of 10 answered
When to involve a professional

Whatever the score, talk to a clinician if your child shows persistent school refusal, somatic symptoms (stomachaches, headaches) that disrupt daily life, or a deterioration in sleep, eating, or friendships over several weeks. A reflection tool can’t replace an evaluation. In the U.S., the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available any time by call or text at 988.

Common questions

Is this quiz a diagnosis?

No. It’s a private, non-diagnostic reflection tool based on how researchers describe behavioral inhibition. A temperament is not a disorder, and only a qualified clinician can diagnose an anxiety condition.

What does a high score mean?

It suggests your child shows several signs consistent with a high-reactive temperament. That’s a normal trait with real strengths; what matters most is responding with warmth and gentle, graduated exposure rather than overprotection or pressure.

My child scored high – what should I do?

Start with the parent guidance: validate the feeling, avoid feeding avoidance, and practice new situations in small, predictable doses. Seek a clinician if you see persistent school refusal, disruptive somatic symptoms, or a decline in sleep, eating, or friendships over several weeks.

Is anything I enter stored or sent anywhere?

No. The quiz runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you select is saved or transmitted.

This is educational information, not medical advice. A temperament is not a diagnosis. If anxiety, low mood, or avoidance is materially shrinking someone’s life – or if there are thoughts of self-harm – talk to a clinician. In the U.S. you can call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), any time.