However, when the issues are potentially dangerous, such as when the child aligns himself only with belligerent, antisocial friends, then parents have a responsibility to discourage the association. There is no evidence that only children find making friends harder than children with siblings. Research has found that only children are as cooperative and competitive as children with siblings. In fact, many see an imaginary companion as a sign of creative potential. There is no evidence that an imaginary friend interferes with a child's relationships.
Imaginary friends can help children learn how to master and cope with anxiety.
It's important not to belittle or make fun of a child's imaginary friend. As the child begins to feel more competent overall, her need for imaginary friends will decrease. He won't go out and play with any of the kids on the block. He won't call for any kid in his class. I tried screaming at him to go out.