Nail biting typically begins between ages of five and 10 and is common among children as well as adults. As many as one in three Americans bite their nails.

One of more noteworthy and generally surprising things about nail biting is its high instance. It crosses every social and economic barrier. Prevalence figures for children are much higher than for adults.

Results of nail biting can result in short, ragged nails. It may also lead to damaged cuticles as well as bleeding around edges of nails. Infections can also develop if nails are not properly attended to.

Most relevant studies have found that nail biting tends to peak out around puberty.

A study by Malon and Massmer studied behavior in Chicago school systems and reported that nail biting is prevalent in about 60 percent of children age eight to eleven. Most people agree it is a learned habit, perhaps picked up by watching a parent or someone else biting their nails.

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We’ve recently moved into a new apartment complex that really is much like a resort. We don’t have to maintain lawn, handle any maintenance problems, or deal with unruly neighbors. We can use pool without having to clean and maintain it, we can work out in a gym without added monthly expense, we can play pool without going to a bar, and we can enjoy many sports such as racquetball, tennis, volleyball, and basketball.

So why with all this “luxury” surrounding us would I already be in a tiff? Dogs! That’s why. Many of renters own dogs and instead of taking them for a walk on “pet walks” which were meant for their feces. These pet owners think its okay to walk their pets around apartment complex, let them do their “business,” and then walk away without cleaning it up!

I’ve learned that not cleaning up after their dogs is a HUGE pet peeve of mine. First, I consider it rude to let your dog use bathroom on someone else’s property. Okay, so we don’t own lawn in front of our apartment, but we sure do pay a lease for it as well as public areas! Second, I think it is inconsiderate and shows a lack of respect for others. Third, I think it makes property look bad.