Studying Stress in Pediatric Populations - Challenges and Opportunities

Consequences of unmanaged childhood stress are linked to physical, emotional and behavioral difficulties that adversely influence all aspects of development- often leading to life-long problems. Children can serve as a rich source of information regarding their stress, their symptoms and their coping abilities, but they are not being asked. Research on childhood stress has lagged far behind that of adult stress and our children are suffering the consequences of our lack of understanding and intervention. Diagnoses of various forms of anxiety and depression in children are on the rise worldwide. This book presents an attempt to assess and alleviate stress symptoms in school-age children. A thorough review of the literature regarding the state of stress research in pediatric populations is presented with a special focus on the use of Movement Therapies. Brain Gym® movements are identified as a possible technique to relieve stress in the school setting and the details of an innovative study are presented. This book will be of interest to teachers and school administrators, counselors, social workers, psychologists, parents and anyone who cares about children!