There are many issues that can arise in a family setting that can affect the family dynamic and cause emotional issues for different members of the family. Children are at the highest risk to be affected by these family issues. One of the main problems that arises are attachment issues, either becoming too dependent on a parent, or not forming enough of an attachment with a parent.
Many children and parents have a difficult time on the first day of day care or school, which can especially be a problem with first born children. A little bit of anxiety or nerves is normal for this transition and can be expected. Some people, however, experience higher levels of anxiety that can lead to emotional troubles. Some children have a difficult time adjusting to being away from their parents. The anxiety may cause them to be anti-social with other children, not participate in class, act out in class, or other forms of rebellion. Some parents may become depressed because of the separation from their child. They can become so attached to their child because they are together so much that the separation is difficult to deal with. Therapy can help in these cases where the anxiety or depression exceeds what is to be expected. A therapist can help to manage these feelings and ease the anxiety from separation. A child therapist can also help children feel more at ease and help to develop social skills so they are happier at school or any situation away from their parents.
The opposite can also be true in situations where children do not receive enough attention or care. Children need a solid, constant source of care. Whether it be a revolving door of nannies, moving from foster home to foster home, parental neglect, parents working long hours, emotional problems that prevent a parent from caring for a child, or the loss of a parent, there are many situations that can disrupt a child’s emotional development.