In this assignment, you will be exploring actual and potential health problems in the childhood years using a functional health assessment and Erickson’s Stages of Child Development. Cite and reference all sources used in your answers, Minimum of 3 references. Include in your assessment a thorough discussion of Erickson’s Stages of Child Development as it pertains to the development age of the child. NO PLAGIARISM
Title: Actual and Potential Health Problems in Childhood: A Functional Health Assessment and Erickson’s Stages of Child Development
Introduction:
Childhood is a crucial period of growth and development characterized by rapid physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes. It is important to assess the functional health of children to identify and address any actual or potential health problems early on. This assignment focuses on utilizing a functional health assessment and Erickson’s Stages of Child Development to evaluate the health status of a child and understand their stage-specific developmental needs.
Functional Health Assessment:
A functional health assessment provides an overall view of a child’s health status by evaluating various aspects, including physical, developmental, cognitive, psychosocial, and environmental factors (Sears, Rauch, & Schultz, 2018). It involves collecting subjective and objective data, conducting physical examinations, and utilizing developmental screening tools.
Physical Health Assessment:
The physical health assessment involves evaluating the child’s growth parameters, body systems, nutrition, and physical activity levels. It assesses the child’s height, weight, head circumference, and body mass index (BMI) to monitor growth and detect any deviations from age-appropriate norms (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP], 2009). Additionally, a thorough examination of body systems, such as cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and neurological, helps identify any existing health problems or abnormalities.
Developmental Health Assessment:
Understanding the child’s developmental stage is crucial for determining their developmental needs and identifying any potential delays or deviations. Erickson’s Stages of Child Development provides a framework to examine and comprehend the child’s psychosocial and emotional development at different age groups (Bhattacharya & Winsler, 2009). This model consists of eight stages, each associated with a unique developmental task or crisis that contributes to the child’s overall well-being.
Erickson’s Stages of Child Development:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Birth to 18 months):
Infants learn to trust their caregivers and the environment when their physical and emotional needs are consistently met. Failure to establish trust can lead to mistrust and insecurity.
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months to 3 years):
Toddlers gain a sense of independence and self-control as they explore their surroundings. Supportive and encouraging experiences foster autonomy, while criticism or over-control may result in shame and doubt.
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 5 years):
Preschoolers develop a sense of purpose and initiative through their exploratory behaviors and imagination. They may experience guilt if their initiative is overly restricted or discouraged.
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (6 to 11 years):
School-age children strive for competence and accomplishment in their academic, social, and physical endeavors. Success and positive experiences enhance industry, while failure or negative feedback can lead to feelings of inferiority.
Analyzing a child’s development within Erickson’s framework helps identify potential challenges they may encounter in each stage. It provides insights into the child’s overall well-being, their strengths, and areas that require further support and intervention.
Application of Functional Health Assessment and Erickson’s Stages of Child Development:
To illustrate the application of a functional health assessment and Erickson’s Stages of Child Development, a case study of a five-year-old child named Alex will be examined. Alex’s physical health assessment would involve measuring height, weight, BMI, and conducting a thorough examination of body systems. In terms of developmental health assessment, Alex’s stage of initiative vs. guilt suggests that he is likely to exhibit a drive for accomplishment and explore new tasks and activities. Therefore, it would be important to evaluate his social and cognitive skills, initiative, and any potential signs of guilt or inferiority.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a functional health assessment combined with Erickson’s Stages of Child Development provides a comprehensive approach to evaluate the health status of a child and identify any actual or potential health problems. Assessing physical, developmental, and psychosocial aspects allows healthcare practitioners and caregivers to intervene early, offer appropriate support, and promote optimal health and development in children. Understanding the unique needs and challenges associated with each stage of Erickson’s model helps tailor interventions to nurture healthy development and overall well-being.