The obsessive chewing of the fingernails, usually a sign of stress.
A common practice in schoolchildren, most of whom gradually give it up as they approach adolescence. It is a harmless sign of tension or insecurity, so should not be ridiculed or punished but rather the cause dealt with, if possible.
An anxious behavior in which the free edges of the nails are chewed down as a means of expressing or relieving stress.
Nail-biting is a prevalent practice among children during their initial school years. While many children naturally cease this habit, nail-biting can persist as a nervous tendency in teenagers and adults. Continued nail-biting could lead to unattractive nails, discomfort, and occasionally, bleeding.
As a preventive measure, different solutions with disagreeable flavors can be applied onto the nails.