EMOTIONAL DISORDERS

SEPARATION ANXIETY- Some children are noticed to experience extreme fear and discomfort when they are separated from their parents. They may show a persistent worry that the parent will leave them and not return. This fear may even lead to refusal to go to school. They may cry and throw tantrums if they understand they are being separated from their parents. At any time during the day and while going to sleep the child may refuse to be left alone. The child may even have physical symptoms such as nausea, headache, vomiting, when he or she is separated from the parent.

SIBLING RIVALRY–Some children tend to fight more than others because of their temperament. Arguments between siblings is fairly common thing which may not be noticed in most cases. But sometimes conflict between siblings may be because of sibling rivalry. If a child is noticed to be jealous of the younger sibling since the time birth and experiences emotional problems such as hostilityand unhealthy competition, this problem should not be taken lightly. Often, in sibling rivalry, the child shows childish behaviour, which is not common at their age. There may also be sleep disturbances and anxiety in the child.

ELIMINATION PROBLEMS-

ENCOPRESIS-Toilet training helps children gain control over faeces. Most children after about four years of age learn that they must go to the bathroom for elimination. Sometimes despite learning where to eliminate, they accidentally eliminate (or pass faeces) in inappropriate places. When this takes place after organic causes have been ruled out, professional help must be sought.

BED WETTING/ENURESIS-Usually children who are above 5 years of age tend to have control over urination. If older children (above 5 years) wet their bed or wet themselves in places other than the bathroom, they might be suffering from enuresis. The instances must last for quite a few months before this is considered a problem. One or two incidences may occur even in normal children. For a diagnosis of this problem it is necessary that organic causes are ruled out. This is often a source of anxiety and embarrassment for children.