Consequences of Stress on Children's Development

Stress affects children behavior and physical health. Many believe that children are not affected by domestic violence and stressful environment until they are verbal, and over the age of 3 or 4. Stress in  the first months and years of life has lasting consequences on developing child. For children whose bodies and minds are still growing, a well-tuned stress response system is especially important. High levels of early stress have been linked to impaired behavioral and emotional development as well as numerous health consequences later in life, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease obesity and diabetes. Children learn to cope with frustration, over come obstacles and confront challenges, they will experience a certain amount of stress. This level of stress is usually safe and manageable especially if a child has the support of a healthy home environment. In many countries children are displaced and are at risk for hunger from a combination of violence and poor harvests. Children as young as preschool can show signs of violent behavior. Violent behavior in children can include a wide range of behavior from explosive temper, tantrums, physical aggression, fighting, threats or attempts to hurt other, use of weapon. Violent behavior can be decreased or even prevented if risk factors are reduced or eliminated. Efforts should be directed to decrease exposure of children to violence in homes, communities and through the media.