TikTokkers have started a new trend, calling out the “glass child syndrome” that leaves children growing up neglected.
Hordes of videos have appeared on the social media platform of videos alongside the audio with the lyrics: “Did you get enough love, my little love?”
The term glass child was popularised by Alicia Maples, who spoke about her own experience as a glass child during a Ted Talk in 2010. Maples had a sibling with autism.
What is a glass child?
Glass children are said to be the siblings of kids who had/have disabilities. They are called glass children not because they are fragile or easily shatter, but because care-givers tend to see straight through them and neglect their needs more because they have to be so focused on the child who has a disability.
How has this gone viral on TikTok?
Many children or young people who consider themselves”glass children” have since taken to the social media site to talk about their own experiences.
Some TikTokers have spoken about the hurt they have felt growing up as the glass child, but others including @umcasey, have said there are benefits to being a glass child. Alongside her video, she wrote in theTikTok caption, “I may be a glass child but I also got to meet the cast of Wizards of Waverly Place for my sister’s Make-a-Wish trip and do tea parties with my grandma while she was doing chemo and go to a bunch of charity galas where I was fed the best food of my life.”
What are the traits of a glass child?
Experts say a glass child is typically emotionally neglected; experience severe pressure to be problem-free and perfect; take on parental responsibilities within the family at a young age; and have an overwhelming need to make others happy.
What are the long-term effects of glass child syndrome?
Experts have warned this can lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
