Studying Stress in Pediatric Populations - Challenges and Opportunities

Consequences of unmanaged childhood stress are linked to physical emotionaland behavioral difficulties that adversely influence all aspects of development-often leading to life-long problems. Children can serve as a rich sourceof information regarding their stress their symptoms and their coping abilitiesbut they are not being asked. Research on childhood stress has laggedfar behind that of adult stress and our children are suffering the consequencesof our lack of understanding and intervention. Diagnoses of various formsof anxiety and depression in children are on the rise worldwide.This book presents an attempt to assess and alleviate stress symptoms inschool-age children. A thorough review of the literature regarding the stateof stress research in pediatric populations is presented with a special focus onthe use of Movement Therapies. Brain Gym® movements are identified as apossible technique to relieve stress in the school setting and the details of aninnovative study are presented.This book will be of interest to teachers and school administrators counselorssocial workers psychologists parents and anyone who cares aboutchildren!