Causes and Symptoms of Stress in Children

As adults we tend to feel that childhood is a happy and carefree time of life. While a large number of children are indeed carefree, it is foolhardy to assume that children do not undergo stress. This is especially true in the day and age of today where the society puts a fair amount of pressure on performance in every sphere of life. Today this paranoia with performance is taking its toll on children as well where many parents deprive their toddlers and teenagers of a carefree childhood by making them run after better grades and better performance in sports and the like.

High expectations in academic performance, deprived childhood, and peer pressure, hormonal and physiological changes while growing up coupled with the demands for familial responsibility are some major source of stress in children. Another extremely common source of stress in children is stressed parents, who create an atmosphere of tension in the house and are not emotionally available for their children.

While the physiological, psychological and emotional symptoms of stress in children are similar to those of adults, there are various other symptoms that you can observe. Stressed children are vulnerable to anxiety disorders, which can affect their performances at school. Many respond with aggression and indignation.

Children and teenagers who are overly stressed usually display emotional signs like:

• Exhibition of extreme reactions and emotions
• Attention grabbing behavior
• Aggression
• Excessive shyness
• Social phobia, especially among the peer group
• Lack of interest in otherwise enjoyable activities
• Irritability and mood swings

It is only natural for children and teenagers to keep their feelings from their parents. It is therefore extremely important that you develop a bond that is based on trust and love with your children. Only when you understand your children completely will you be able to know when they are going through a tough phase. It is also important to note here that you should not be overbearing and monitor changes in behavior and moods carefully.

Teach your child how to manage situations in life. The best way you can do it is by setting a good example yourself. If your child sees you coping with day-to-day stressors with calmness and serenity you are bound to spur similar traits in him/her.

Never forget to compliment your child on achievements. Hugging and kissing is one of the best ways of showing young children that you care. More importantly, do not expect your child to excel in something he/she may not be interested in.

Back to Symptoms of Stress.