SERIOUS EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE Tyler Smith Definition Serious emotional

SERIOUS EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE Tyler Smith

Definition � � � � Serious emotional disturbance is defined as follows: The term means a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time, which affects a child’s educational performance: A. An inability to learn that can’t be explained by intellectual , sensory, or health factors B. An inability to build relationships with peers or teachers C. Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances D. A general mood of unhappiness or depression E. A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems. This term also includes schizophrenia

Causes � � � Causes have not been determined. Many factors include heredity, brain disorder, diet, stress, and family functioning have all been considered probable causes Although research has not shown any of these to be direct cause of behavior or emotional problems

Characteristics and Behaviors � � � Hyperactivity (short attention span, impulsiveness) Very aggressive (want to act and fight out their feelings) Withdrawal ( no social interaction, excessive fear and anxiety) � � � Immaturity (snapping for no reason, crying, temper tantrums) Learning Difficulties ( academically performing below grade level) because their issues affect their school work

Interesting Facts � � Up to one in 10 people may suffer from a serious emotional disturbance However up to 70% of children do not receive mental health services, because its so hard to determine symptoms � Many of these adolescents commit suicide because they have no help, which is the third leading cause of death for 15 -24 years and the sixth leading cause for 5 -14 year olds

Types of the disorder � � � � Obsessive Compulsive Psychosis Schizophrenia Mood disorders Separation Anxiety disorders Intermittent Explosive Disorder There are many more as well

Serious cases of the disorder � Children with the most serious disturbances may exhibit � Excessive anxiety � Bizarre motor acts � Abnormal mood swings � Some are even identified as having severe forms of psychosis or schizophrenia

Differences between normal outbreaks and emotional disturbance � � � Many children may not have a disturbance but many display these behaviors at various times during development However, when children have an emotional disturbance, these behaviors continue over long periods of time. As they get older, it only gets worse as well

Educational Implications � � Educational programs for children with a disturbance needs to include attention to providing emotional and behavioral support as well as helping them to master academics, develop social skills, and increase selfawareness, self-control, and self-esteem. Make sure IEP is appropriate, and they are allowed to include psychological or counseling services.

References � � Dunn, J. M. & Leitschuh, C. A. (2006). Special physical education (8 th ed. ). Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt. Grotevant, H. D. , Mc. Roy, R. G. , & Zurcher Jr. , L. A. (1988). Emotional disturbance in adopted adolescents: Origins and development. New York, NY: Praeger.