Emotional Disturbances

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Emotional Behavior Disorder or Emotional Disturbances is one of the fourteen categories under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, This means that if a child has this disability, they will qualify for services and assistance in school and at home for the family. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 8.3 million children ages four to seventeen are thought to have emotional disturbances and 2.9 children are on medication for emotional disturbances. This is a mental health disorder that could go undiagnosed and untreated for years. Having an emotional disturbance can affect one in many areas beyond the emotional, including physical, social, or one's cognitive skills. Unfortunately there is no known cause of emotional disturbances, although heredity, brain disorders, diet, and stress all are thought to have some role in the cause. (from Nichcy and ECE textbook) Having an Emotional Disturbance means having one of more of the five characteristics over a long period of time and having it adversely affect a child's educational performance. One of the characteristics that may be present is an inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors. Another characteristic is an inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with others. The third characteristic that may be present is inappropriate types of behaviors or feelings under normal circumstances. The fourth characteristic is a general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression. The last characteristic is a tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school related problems. (as defined by IDEA) Having an Emotional Disturbance includes anxiety di... ... middle of paper ... ... The disability does not and should not ever define who they are. A teacher can also set clear behavioral rules and expectations for the entire class. A teacher should provide accommodations for them, which should be in their IEP, be on their IEP team to help shape their special education program, and have a strong communication with the student’s parents. Emotional Disturbances is one of fourteen different disabilities under the IDEA. It is also split into many categories; anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, conduct disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and psychotic disorders. Having an Emotional Disturbance does not need to negatively impact one’s education. There are many things that a teacher can do to support students with Emotional Disturbances and make school-life much more accommodating for them. Works Cited NICHY, ECE textbook

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