ABSTRACT

This chapter looks at developmental stages, associated risks and strategies of support. The specific focus of worries in children and young people is likely to change across childhood, depending on the developmental stage they are in. As children mature they become more aware of comparisons between themselves and their peers. During adolescence, young people need to feel they belong to their peer group. This is a very important part of adolescent development. They are starting to consider themselves in the wider world and thinking about how their futures will develop. As children develop through the ages of 0-5 years they develop trust in, and attachment to, their caregivers. For babies the task is to survive, so fears and anxiety are related to loud noises, unexpected events and lack of support for their basic needs to be met. Children with stable friendships are less likely to be bullied, less likely to feel stressed and less likely to develop mental health issues.