Learning objectives
In this chapter you will:
• Be introduced to the ways in which children, young people and their families respond to disruptions in health
• Explore the relationship between responsive nursing practice and psychosocial development of children and young people
• Examine cultural factors that influence the ways in which children, young people and their families respond to disruptions in health
• Consider child behaviour and child development, and the impact of nursing practice on responses to experiences of illness
• Identify health-promotion and health-education strategies that aim to improve the health and wellbeing of Australian children and young people
Introduction
This chapter pays special attention to the responses of children, young people and their families to disruptions to a child's health. When a child experiences an acute or chronic illness, we can expect a number of emotional and behavioural responses. The paediatric nurse's knowledge of child behaviour and child development can be of great benefit in assisting parents and caregivers to promote resilience in the child or young person.
This chapter presents a series of case studies and case study resolutions to provide guidelines and recommendations for managing emotional and behavioural disorders related to children's experiences of illness. The case studies are presented within a framework of psychosocial development to best illustrate the relationship between child development and response to illness. The relationship is bidirectional – that is, responses are shaped according to the developmental stage of the child or young person, and development is impacted by the experiences of both acute and chronic illness. Consideration is given to cultural and social factors that influence the child's response to the experience of illness. This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health considerations and the potential implications for care provided to children, young people and their families.
The psychosocial development of children and young people experiencing disruptions to health
Opportunities for developmental experiences that promote healthy psychosocial development may be limited or compromised by childhood illness. The presence of chronic illness may disrupt the pace and timing of developmental milestone achievements. Indeed, regression of previously mastered milestones may be observed. Long absences from school and limited opportunities for taking responsibility and the experience of achievement can compromise psychosocial developmental mastery.