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Most Common Disabilities
Also see: Disability Levels A Closer Look at Children's Disabilities
These may be problems specifically related to the child's issues of neglect and/or abuse, loss, abandonment, or adoption issues.
Emotional Problems
Emotional problems in children and teenagers can range from mild to severe. When a parent suspects an emotional problem, the first step is an open, honest talk with the child about feelings, if this is appropriate to the child's age. Parents may also want to consult with the child's doctor, teachers, clergy, or other adults the child knows. At least one in 20 children and adolescents may have a serious emotional disturbance that severely disrupts life at home, school, and in the community.
Signs in a young child may be:
- a marked drop in school performance
- persistent nightmares
- frequent unexplainable temper tantrums
- persistent disobedience or aggression
- refusal to participate in usual activities
In older children and adolescents, warning signs may include:
- depression
- abuse of alcohol and/or drugs
- sexual acting out self-injury,
- self destructive behavior, or threats of harm to others
- changes in eating and sleeping patterns
- problems in relationships
Your child's pediatrician can rule out possible physical causes for problems and help you locate a mental health professional. Since adopted children often have emotional problems specifically related to adoption issues, parents should seek a counselor or therapist who is knowledgeable about adoption.
Once an appropriate diagnosis is made, treatment may include psychotherapy, behavior therapy, or medication.
For more information:
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (202) 966-7300
http://www.aacap.org - National Institute of Mental Health (301) 443-4513 TTY: 301-443-8431
http://www.nimh.nih.gov
Attention Deficit Disorder
Up to 3.5 million children have an Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). It is a leading cause of school failure and under-achievement. ADD is a neurobiologically based disability, characterized by developmentally inappropriate attention skills, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. ADD is often accompanied by poor self-esteem and behavioral difficulties. Characteristics of children with ADD can include:
- Fidgeting with hands or feet
- Difficult remaining seated
- Difficulty awaiting turns in games
- Difficulty following through on instructions
- Shifting from one uncompleted task to another
- Difficulty playing quietly
- Interrupting conversations
- Appearing not to listen
- Doing things that are dangerous without thinking about the consequences
ADD students have a greater likelihood of repeating a grade, dropping out of school, under-achieving academically, and having social and emotional difficulties. Making and keeping friends is a difficult task for children with ADD. There is no "cure" for ADD, but parents can help their child by learning as much as possible about ADD; seeking professional evaluation and treatment; advociating for their child; seeking parent training.
Parent training will help a parent to provide clear, consistent expectations and directions; set up an effective discipline system; create a behavior modification plan; assist a child with social issues; and identify the child's strengths.
Hyperactivity
The term hyperactivity commonly refers to manifestations of disturbed behavior in children or adolescents characterized by constant overactivity, distractibility, impulsiveness, inability to concentrate, and aggressiveness. Hyperactivity is often associated with attention deficit disorder (which is then referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) but can also be associated with other disorders (such fetal alcohol syndrome).
Among the treatment options are behavior therapy, social skills training, medication, parent education, and modification to the child's educational program.
For more information:
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (202) 966-7300
http://www.aacap.org - CHADD. Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (800) 233-4050
http://www.chadd.org - National Attention Deficit Disorder Association (847) 432-ADDA
http://www.add.org