by Brenda S Brown

Created on: April 08, 2010   Last Updated: April 12, 2010

I nicknamed them Creep and Cronin, but I have no idea what the names meant or where they originated, but I do remember that for a brief time during my early childhood, I defined those characters as my favorite playmates.  I remember that although they seemed real in my mind, the idea of their daughter having imaginary companions, just about drove my parents to distraction. 

If you think that imaginary playmates are harmful please continue reading my thoughts and give this matter some additional attention. 

Strangely enough, my Scott grandparents believed that it was customary for children to have make-believe acquaintances, and endured my outlandish behavior.  Unlike my parents, they addressed my associates when they entered my bedroom, and inquired about their whereabouts.  When I pointed toward the corner, they spoke to them as if they were visible, and never questioned their existence or significance. 

The bazaar behavior plagued my parents, and in desperation, they sought the advice of a neighbor, who was a recent graduate of a prestigious medical college.  Since he was also a parent, he understood their concern, and attempted to soothe their anxiety.  Pretend friends rarely signal an emotion problem; because Brenda doesn’t blame them for negative behavior, and isn’t depressed, I find no reason for concern.  

Later, when my parents consulted a trusted family friend, she declared that a toddler who has such an imagination is not only normal; they are also creative.  Such imagination, usually seen in first born children and generally very bright kids, causes them to explore the world with a nature that is envied by other individuals.   

Years later, a study at the University of Washington by Marjorie Taylor, head of psychology, explored the hidden world of unseen companions and noted that the phenomenon of imaginary friends tends to be misunderstood.  Although some people think it’s extraordinary, and others think that it’s a red flag, it is neither.  Studies show that children, who invent imaginary friends, whether they are invisible beings or personified toys, tend to have enhanced verbal skills and a healthier social understanding. Pretend friends is acceptable behavior but not having them is also acceptable. 

Taylor says, “I think is morphs into a different form."

Taylor and University of Washington researcher Stephanie Carlson explored the hidden world of imaginary companions in a study that appears in the current issue of the journal Developmental Psychology.  When fifty authors were asked if they ever had pretend friends, nearly all of them replied in the affirmative.  

I firmly believe that imaginary friends are good for children. 

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