ABSTRACT
Teachers have to deal with a vast array of psychological processes which are induced by children's ill-health and injury. When chronic diseases, physical disability and trauma occur in childhood and adolescence, very strong emotional responses are experienced. Children, like adults, may well be unaware of, deny or minimise the effects of their situation and fail to implement appropriate health care regimes. All children, especially those identified as having special needs, will vary enormously in their understanding of health problems and injury and the impact these may have upon their educational, personal and social development. This chapter considers certain psychological factors relevant for teachers and others concerned with meeting the special educational needs of children who have associated, or possibly causally related, health problems. To provide a context for this analysis there is an emphasis upon the psychological health of children who have been abused (physically, sexually, emotionally and/or by neglect) and those who have been diagnosed as being infected by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or those who have developed AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
