Psychological state, emotional resilience & emotional regulation

Child psychologist SydneyEmotional resilience is fundamental to your child’s success, not just academically, but in all facets of their life. Emotional resilience refers to one’s ability to adapt to stressful situations and deal with life changes and other things that children may find difficult or uncomfortable. Children have to face many uncomfortable and boring situations in the school environment. Whilst most children naturally accept the things that they do not wish to do, other children simply shut down and struggle to cope. This can result in a variety of responses such as anxiety and avoidance, anger or aggression, depression and withdrawal, or low self-esteem and helplessness.

When a child is faced with stress they may struggle to cope and their responses can differ according to the situation. Academically the child may produce little written work or need constant teacher support. Socially the child may explode or anxiously withdraw when they feel uncomfortable. At home the behaviour may be very defiant or anxious depending on various dynamics. It is important to understand all dynamics to then formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

What things can you assess during a psychological assessment?

Depression

Anxiety:

  • Generalised anxiety
  • Social anxiety
  • Specific phobia
  • Separation anxiety

Anger

Stress

Self-esteem & self-concept

Perfectionism

Behaviour

Social skills