Middle Childhood: Biosocial Development
Middle childhood is the period of development between six
and eleven years. Every developmental stage in life ushers in new biological and
physiological challenges and vulnerabilities. It is important to note that
almost every individual has some elements of abnormal behavior which may
translate to severe disorders later in life. However, the prognosis of
disorders that have their onset in childhood is not certain. The symptoms of
the disorder may improve or worsen with time. The diagnosis for psychopathology
is made difficult by being able to set apart typical childish behavior from
pathology. This paper discusses attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
and dyslexia.
Discussion
Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a brain disorder characterized by a persistent
pattern of lack of attention and hyperactive or impulsive behaviors that
interfere with the normal functioning and development of a person. The
diagnosis of ADHD is often difficult because there is no distinctive biological
marker even though some biological patterns occur. The symptom of inattention
becomes more evident in children of the school-going age, making diagnosis
dependent on parents and teachers reports on overall child behavior. This is
followed by confirmation from a specialist who has interacted with many
children within that age bracket. The onset of ADHD is linked to neurological
dysregulation as a result of genetic components, complications during pregnancy
and toxins. Comorbidity is common in ADHD. ADHD may be underdiagnosed because
the symptoms can be easily misinterpreted for other conditions or disregarded
as normal child behavior. Boys are often diagnosed with ADHD more than girls.
Due to the variance in causative factors, treatment options may not necessarily
work in a similar manner in different children. Treatment of ADHD may involve pharmacological
options to regulate emotions and behavior. Psychotherapeutic approaches are
more widely used to manage symptoms and equip those around the affected
individual with knowledge on how to provide a conducive environment for
recovery. While some parents are receptive to the relief provided by drugs,
others oppose medication due to the fear of the consequences that may emerge as
a result of drug use.
Dyslexia
This is a learning disorder that manifests through
difficulty in reading. Children with dyslexia present with divergent symptoms,
making its diagnosis complex. Some children present with difficulties in
reading out sounds but have no difficulties in comprehension and memorizing
printed text while others may present with opposite symptoms. The onset of
dyslexia is linked to speech and hearing difficulties. Early warning signs
include a three-year old not being able to talk clearly. Individualized
treatment for dyslexia is recommended because the causes vary significantly
from one child to the other.
Special Needs and
Developmental Stages
Children with special needs usually have delayed milestones
when compared to other children of the same age. The prognosis of special needs
in children is very unpredictable. In some children, symptoms suggestive of
special needs may worsen with time and continually impair function while ion
some, the severity of symptoms lessens over time and they may turn out as fully
productive adults. Early interventions are required for successful management
of special needs.
Types of Challenges
Children with special needs have challenges in maintain
social interactions. They may not be able to relate to the emotions of people
within their circle, continually putting them away. They may face difficulties
in engaging in social activities such as playing, making it difficult for them
to keep friends. Children with special needs are often unable to accomplish tasks
that others their age find easy to get through, which affects their self-esteem
negatively.
Conclusion
Different developmental stages present different biological and
physiological changes and vulnerabilities. Symptoms of abnormal behavior and
development among children are often disregarded as normal occurrences, which
delays the diagnosis and treatment of certain disorders. Parents need to
familiarize with the characteristics of every developmental stage and keep
track of their child’s behavior to ensure that any anormally is detected early
enough to increase chances for positive outcomes.