HELPING CHILDREN WITH COMMAN
EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL
PROBLEMS
“CHILD BEHAVIOR DISORDERS”
Young people can have mental, emotional, and behavioral problems
that are real, painful, and costly. These problems often called
“disorders”, are sources of stress for children and their families,
school and communities.
The number of young people and their families who are affected
by mental, emotional and behavioral disorders is significant. It is
estimated that as many as one in five children and adolescents may
have a mental health disorders that can be identified and required
treatment.
Mental health disorders in children and adolescents are caused by
biology, environment, or a combination of the two. Examples of
biological factors are genetics, chemical imbalances in the body, and
damage to the central nervous system, such as a head injury. Many
environmental factor also can affect mental health, including
exposure to violence, extreme stress and loss of an important person.
Families and communities, working together, can help children and
adolescents with mental disorders. A broad range of services is often
necessary to meet the needs of these young people and their families.
THE DISORDERS
Below are descriptions of particular mental, emotional, and
behavioral disorders that may occur during childhood and
adolescence. All can have a serious impact on a child’s overall health.
Some disorders are more common than others , and conditions range
from mild to serve. Often a child has more than one disorder.
ANXIETY DISORDERS
Young people who experience excessive fear , worry , or uneasiness
may have an anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are among the most
common of childhood disorders. according to one study of 9 to 17
years olds, as many as 13 of every 100 young people have an anxiety
disorders.
 Phobias, which are unrealistic and over whelming fears of
objects or situations.
 Panic disorders, which causes terrifying “Panic attacks” that
includes physicals symptoms, such as a rapid heart beat and
dizziness.
 Post traumatic stress disorders , which causes a pattern of
flashback and other symptoms and occurs and children who
have experienced a psychologically distressing event, such as
abuse , being a victim or witness of violence or exposure to
other types of trauma such as wars or natural disaster.
SEVERE DEPRESSION
Many people once believed that severe depression did not occur
in childhood. Today , experts agree that severe depression occur
at any age. Studies show that two of every 100 children may
have major depression, and as many as eight of every 100
adolescents may be affected. The disorder is marked by changes
in:1. Emotions- Children often feel sad, cry, or feel worthless.
2. Motivation- Children lose interest in play activities, or
schoolwork declines.
3. Physical well-beingChildren may experience changes in
appetite or sleeping patterns and may have vague physical
complaints.
4. Thoughts- Children believe they are ugly, unable to do
anything or life is hopeless.
It also is important for parents and caregivers to be aware that
some children and adolescents with depression may not value
their lives ,which can put them at risk for suicide.
TREATMENT, SUPPORT SERVICES, AND RESEARCH: SOURCES OF
HOPE
Now more than ever before, there is hope for young people with
mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Most of the
symptoms and distress associated with childhood and
adolescents mental, emotional and behavioral disorders can be
alleviated with timely and appropriate treatment and supports.
In addition, researchers are working to gain new scientific
insights that will lead to better treatments and cures for mental,
emotional, and behavioral disorder. Innovative studies also are
exploring new ways of delivering services to prevent and treat
these disorders.
Research efforts are expected to lead to more effective use of
existing treatments, so children and their families can live
happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
“SOLUTIONS FOR CHILD PROBLEMS”
The child with emotional problemsAre you worried about a child with emotional problems?
A range of behaviors and emotional responses signify emotional
concern in children:- These include externalizing behaviors, like
frequent temper tantrums and aggressive, active out behaviors.
Emotional problems in children may also include internalizing
behaviors, such as extreme shyness, passivity and withdrawal or
psychological concerns like anxiety and depression.
 EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN.
It is helpful to remember that we all experience a range of
emotions, and feelings:- children, as well as adults, experience
both positive and negative emotions. Anger, for example is not
wrong or bad but a normal human emotion.
WHEN THINGS GO WRONG
“Emotional control, particularly controlling anger and
aggressiveness, are the most common emotional problems faced
by today’s children”.
Children who exhibit emotional problems may experience
difficulty regulating their emotions. Unless this concern is
addressed the risk increase that the child will develop child
behavior problems.
HELP THE CHILD WITH EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS
Remember- emotions are not bad, they just are- Children ned
help to understand and cope with their feelings and to
understand that their emotions are normal.
 REVIEW THE SUGGESTION BELOW- TRY THOSE THAT APPLY TO
YOUR SITUATIONS.
1. Be a good role model, pay attention to your own emotions
and model the appropriate expression of these.
2. Accept and acknowledge the feelings of your children.
3. Teach children problems solving, conflict resolution and
assertiveness skills. These techniques can provide the child
with strategies to regulate and manage his emotions.
4. The child with emotional problems may feel stressed and
upset. To help a child manage and regulate his emotions in a
healthy and positive manner, it can also help to enhance the
child’s self-esteem and to reduce stress. You can also teach
the child how to relax and cope with stress.
Shivangi
Christ Convent School