It is clear that children are subject to stresses throughout their lives, and as with adults it is those who are unable to develop appropriate coping strategies who will fall ill. The Sunday Telegraph, 01.12.96, stated that some 40% of children have mental health disorders. The breakdown of the family is cited as a cause, together with inner city deprivation, lengthy time waiting for psychological assessments and rapid changes in fostering arrangements when placements break down. Other factors mentioned are family-related problems, including marriage break-down and poverty. The British Psychological Society refer to effects of trauma, social relationships in the playground and the witnessing of physical or emotional violence. Valerie Riches of Family and Youth Concern has said : 'Why are so many children disturbed? Because the family is crashing down, they are confused, they do not have the enduring love that they must have to become responsible adults.'

The over-riding theme of this answer indicates the necessity of a stable, loving family, where mutual care and respect is shown, as a antidote to child stress.

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