Understanding Child Counselling and Common Psychological and Learning Issues in Children

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What is Child Counselling?

Child counselling is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on addressing the emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues faced by children. It provides a safe and supportive environment for children to express their thoughts and feelings, and helps them develop coping strategies to overcome challenges and improve their overall well-being.

Who is a Child as per World Health Organization and other Indian Laws.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a child is defined as any individual under the age of 18. This definition acknowledges that children go through distinct stages of development and have unique needs that require appropriate care and support.

Different definitions of ‘child’ and ‘minor’, according to different Indian laws are as follows:

• Section 2(ii) of The Child Labour (Protection and Regulation) Act, 1986 states that “child means a person who has not completed his fourteenth year of age. This Act aims at prohibiting the engagement of children in work. Therefore, this Act makes provisions for the persons who have not completed their fourteenth year of age.

• According to Section 2(c) of The Plantations Labour Act, 1951, “child means a person who has not completed his fifteenth year.” This Act has been formed for the welfare of people who are engaged in plantation. Section 24 of the Act further categorises young children and states that “no child who has not completed his twelfth year shall be required or allowed to work in any plantation.” Section 25 prohibits the engagement of ‘child’ in the plantation work except between the hours of 6 A.M. and 7 P.M.

• The Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961 which aims at regulation of conditions of work of motor transport workers, defines child as “a person who has not completed his fifteenth year.” Section 21 of the Act prohibits the employment of a ‘child’ in motor transport undertaking.

• According to Section 2(b) of The Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966, “Child means a person who has not completed fourteen years of age.” This Act makes provisions for the welfare of the workers who are engaged in beedi and cigar manufacturing institutions. Section 24 of the Act says that, “No child is required or allowed to work in any industry premises.”

• Definition of child in The Prohibitions of Child Marriage Act, 2006 is, “child means a person who, if a male, has not completed twenty-one years of age, and if a female, has not completed eighteen years of age.” The main objective of this Act is to prevent child marriages and Section 3 of the Act makes the child marriage voidable at the option of a person who was a child at the time of marriage.

• Child according to The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 “means a person who has not completed eighteen years of age.” Juvenile Justice Act makes provisions for the welfare and developmental needs of the juveniles. A person who has not completed eighteen years of age is given the status of child under this Act and therefore, it is applicable to them.

• Section 2(d) of The Protection of Children from sexual offences Act, 2012 states that, “child means any person below the age of eighteen years.” This Act simply aims to protect the children from sexual offences and harassment.

General Psychological Issues Faced by Children

Children may experience a range of psychological issues that can impact their emotional and mental well-being. Some common psychological issues faced by children include:

• Anxiety and stress
• Depression and mood disorders
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Behavioral problems
• Low self-esteem and confidence
• Grief and loss
• Family conflicts and divorce

It is important to note that each child is unique, and the specific psychological issues they face may vary.

Learning Issues Faced by Children

Children may also encounter learning issues that affect their academic performance and educational progress. Some common learning issues faced by children include:

• Dyslexia: Difficulty with reading, spelling, and writing
• Dyscalculia: Difficulty with mathematical concepts and calculations
• Dysgraphia: Difficulty with handwriting and fine motor skills
• Language disorders: Difficulty with speech and language development
• Attention and concentration difficulties: Difficulty with focus and staying on task

These learning issues can significantly impact a child’s academic success and overall confidence in their abilities.

Conclusion

Child counselling plays a crucial role in addressing the psychological and learning issues faced by children. By providing a supportive and empathetic environment, child counsellors help children develop effective coping strategies and improve their emotional well-being. It is important for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to recognize the signs of psychological and learning issues in children and seek appropriate support and intervention. By addressing these challenges early on, we can empower children to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.