Withdrawn from social situations
Before You Begin
Pause and breathe. Even if this shouldn't be happening... accept that it is and embrace it with composure and calmness.
Calmness is the only way forward because without calm, there is no possibility for receptiveness and connection. Your child won't give to you any more than they see from you.
Never forget that a strong connection is fundamental, as there will be no correction in them if there is no connection with you.
The Core Problem
They already feel like an outsider, so they are disengaging.
What Will Make It Worse
Ignoring what is bothering them and expecting/pressuring them to stop acting like that.
What The Child Needs
1. To figure out why they feel this way: There could be a lot of reasons that your child has lost a sense of connection to a specific person, group or from socializing in general. It is likely more complex than you think, or something you couldn't have guessed, so try to get them to explain it to you in their words. Saying it out loud will make it pretty clear to them and you what needs to be done to overcome this situation.
2. To find the right group for them (if possible) : Depending on the situation, they may or may not have the option to completely walk away from that person or social group and find a better fit. If so, help them however you can to find a replacement and return to enjoying socializing.
How To Have The Conversation With Your Child
Find a calm moment when you think your child would be receptive to talking.
Share that you have noticed they haven't been very active or engaged around the person/group and you are curious why. Let them know that you want to listen to them tell you what they are feeling, or if there is something happening that you aren't seeing.
Once the child has opened up about why they are becoming more withdrawn, reassure them that you understand where they are coming from.
Close by talking about what the child can do to make that situation better for them, even if it means finding someone or others to be around instead.
Let them know that you love them and are always here for them when they need it.