Stress and Children’s
Development
Stress can manifest itself in
numerous ways. The struggle with stress is often times difficult for
adults. Imagine how difficult it can be
for children. As a child I always wanted
to please my parents. I wanted to please
them with my behavior and grades. It became worse in high school when my stress
caused ulcers. It was not until I
entered college that things became easier.
I think the combination of not living with my parents and talking to
friends helped me keep my need to be perfect under control.
Imagine living in Somalia, where
there has been civil war since 1991. The effects of war have been
catastrophic. Children have been
displaced from their homes, parents have been killed, forced to care for
themselves and forced to become child soldiers.
The access to education is difficult.
The schools have either been damaged or destroyed. Some effects on these
children could be nightmares, fearfulness, sleeping problems, anger and
depression. There are several humanitarian agencies attempting to assist these
children. But the war still rages.
Reference
Shil, M.
(September 30, 2011). From playground to battleground: children on the
frontline in Somalia. The Guardian. Retrieved
from http://www.guardian.co.uk/ global development.
