Description
Book SynopsisIn Children in Mind, clinical psychologist Jenny Perkel presents a broad range of up-to-date findings from psychological, neurobiological, genetic, psychiatric, sociological and epidemiological research related to the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems faced by children in South Africa today.
Theoretically informed but not theoretically dense, the book cites both local and international studies to increase awareness and understanding of children’s mental health. It focuses on key issues children and adolescents in today’s world face: The Covid-19 pandemic, the influence of electronic media, diverse family structures, stress and trauma, and difficult socio-economic circumstances.
Children in Mind is an invaluable resource for all those who work with troubled children and adolescents: psychologists, social workers, counsellors, educators and parents. The author’s informed and compassionate approach will help equip professionals and parents to help young people navigate complex issues and make adjustments in their behaviour in order to live more balanced and happier lives.
Table of Contents
- Acknowledgements
- Introduction
- Part I The clinical picture of childhood mental distress
- Chapter 1 What brings today’s children to psychotherapy?
- Chapter 2 Childhood psychiatric diagnosis today
- Chapter 3 Scared, sad children and their self-protective defences
- Chapter 4 Treating today’s troubled children: Paradigm clashes
- Chapter 5 New findings about nature versus nurture
- Part II The impact of modern life on children’s mental health
- Chapter 6 The internet and today’s children
- Chapter 7 Childhood adversity today
- Chapter 8 Socio-economic considerations: The gap between rich and poor children
- Chapter 9 Children of the pandemic
- Chapter 10 When children don’t go outside and play
- Chapter 11 Today’s parents in mind
- Chapter 12 Modern families
- Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Index
