Emotional disturbances of 1st grade school children: a Public Health Problem?

Abstract

Psychological and epidemiological aspects of emotional dynamics of children enroled in the first grade of a state school of the city of São Paulo, Brazil, were studied based on results of Children's Tematic Test (CAT), of Bellak and Bellak. The mentioned test showed that the group is made up of emotionally immature children, lacking affection, especially those considered of low learning capacity. The figure of the adult, as seen by the students, is inadequate, punitive, indiferent and agressive. The results suggest that teachers should have a greater understanding reference to such problems and should give attention to these students, thus leading to the conclusion that first grade classes should not have so many students. The results also suggest that parents should have more knowledge and understanding as regards child development from conception, as well as better family struture as to more adequate discipline. Finally, results suggest more attention on behalf of Public Health workers regarding such problems.