Stress

Stress in childhood takes many forms but the symptoms displayed may be similar to those of children who are abused or depressed. Children are vunerable to changes in the family situation and the environment. Disruptions, such  as divorce, moving, or changing schools may be associated with turmoil within the family that results in stress in the child. The stress of childhood is varied and considerable. There may be stress that is specific of the child, such as a chronic illness.

Coping is the term to describe the respone to stress and individuals react differently. Children develop coping strategies to help them manage stress in many ways similar to adults. The problems relate to the fact that they may not be able to change their situation as easily and so may not be able to avoid stressful situations. Children do cope by reading or playing video games as well as by becoming more introspective and withdrawn. Some children resort to risky behaviors in response to stress and may lie or cheat to avoid stressful situations.

The response to the media has changed how children respond to the environment. Role models are not necessarily teh parents but may be the latest personalities or characters on television shows or video games. Comic books are not felt to exert as much influence on children's behavior as movies and television. Television has most impact on behavior with programs and the United States spends more than 20 hours per week watching television. It is likely that TV has both beneficial (educational) and adverse effects that child's development.