How does having a Chronic Illness affect Children?
All parents hope their children will develop into independent, well-functioning adults. Even physically healthy children and adolescents sometimes face difficulties during certain stages of development. Appropriate adjustment is seen as healthy, age-appropriate behavior according to the developmental stage of the child. Chronic illness sometimes impedes healthy adjustment because it complicates the developmental process. A child with a chronic illness may experience increased difficulties in a variety of areas: 1. Parental relationships – Typically, as children age, they become less dependent on their parents. Dealing with complicated, sometimes uncomfortable medical treatments can make the transition from dependence to independence more difficult. 2. Peer relationships – as children develop through adolescence, peers tend to take on a more significant role. A child with a chronic illness may have self-esteem issues and worries about whether he or she will be accepted. 3. Body image –
