For this reason, children are frequently exposed to new situations. Some children have trouble coping with new situations, and tend to withdraw as a result. Some research has shown that shyness runs in families. It has not been determined if shyness that runs in families is genetic in cause, or if it is due to learning. Some shyness may be caused by parenting practices that are not consistent, for example, punishing for a specific behavior one day, and then letting it slide by the next, being overinvolved with a child some of the time, and uninvolved at other times.
Inconsistency makes children feel insecure, which can lead to shyness.
Too much threatening, teasing, or criticism. Children who are frequently threatened, teased or criticized, either by family members or by other people may learn to expect only negative feedback from others. This expectation will lead to the avoidance of social situations and contact with other people. Lack of parental involvement. Some parents may seem disinterested in their children's lives for a number of reasons.