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The Importance of a Community for Teenagers | Children’s Bureau

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Check out our blog post The Importance of a Community for Teenagers from Children’s Bureau of Southern California. Read it today to learn more!

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Teenage years are a very important time in a person's life. During this period, young people grow physically, emotionally, and mentally. They start to understand more about themselves and the world around them. One of the biggest influences on teens during this time is society. Society includes all the people, places, and things around them-family, friends, schools, neighborhoods, media, culture, and more. All these parts of society work together to shape how teens behave, what attitudes they develop, and the kind of character they build.

In this article, we will explore in detail how society affects teens in these three important areas: behavior, attitude, and character.

How Society Shapes Teen Behavior

Behavior means how teens act or respond to different situations. Society plays a big role in teaching teens what kinds of behavior are acceptable and what are not.

Family as the First Influence

The family is the first and most important part of society that teens experience. Parents, siblings, and other close relatives teach teens how to behave through their own actions and words. For example, if parents show respect to others, help those in need, and solve problems calmly, teens are likely to learn and copy these behaviors. On the other hand, if there is a lot of arguing, neglect, or harsh punishment at home, teens may develop negative behaviors such as anger, fear, or withdrawal.

Friends and Peer Groups

As teens grow older, friends and peer groups become very important. Teens want to belong and be accepted by their friends. This desire can lead to positive behaviors, such as working together, sharing, and supporting each other. But it can also lead to risky or harmful behaviors if the peer group encourages things like skipping school, using drugs, or bullying others. Peer pressure is very strong during the teenage years, and it can sometimes push teens to act in ways they might not choose on their own.

School Environment

Schools are like small societies where teens spend many hours each day. Schools teach not only academic subjects but also social rules and values. A school that promotes kindness, fairness, and respect helps teens learn good behavior. Teachers and staff who care about students and treat them fairly create a positive environment. However, if a school has problems like bullying, unfair treatment, or lack of support, teens may develop negative behaviors such as aggression or low motivation.

Neighborhood and Community

The neighborhood where a teen lives also affects their behavior. A safe, clean, and friendly community offers many opportunities for teens to play, learn, and grow. When teens feel safe and supported, they are more likely to behave positively. But if a teen lives in a neighborhood with crime, violence, or poor resources, they may be exposed to harmful behaviors or feel stressed and anxious. This can affect how they act and make choices.

Media and Technology

In today's world, media and technology are very powerful parts of society. Teens spend a lot of time watching TV, using social media, playing video games, and browsing the internet. These platforms can teach teens new skills, connect them with friends, and provide entertainment. However, they can also expose teens to unrealistic images, harmful content, or cyberbullying. How teens use media and technology can influence their behavior, self-esteem, and even their mental health.

How Society Influences Teen Attitude

Attitude means the way teens think and feel about themselves, other people, and the world. Society helps shape these attitudes in many ways.

Social Norms and Expectations

Every society has rules and expectations about how people should behave and what is important. Teens learn these social norms from their family, friends, school, and media. For example, if society values honesty, kindness, and hard work, teens are more likely to develop positive attitudes toward these qualities. But sometimes society also puts pressure on teens to look a certain way, act a certain way, or achieve certain things. This pressure can cause stress, confusion, or even low self-esteem.

Conflicting Messages

Teens often receive mixed messages from different parts of society. For example, their family might teach them to avoid alcohol, but their friends might say it is fun to drink at parties. Their school might encourage studying hard, but social media might show celebrities living a carefree life without much effort. These conflicting messages can make teens think deeply about what they believe and what they want. Sometimes this helps teens develop their own attitudes and values. Other times, it can cause confusion or make them feel unsure about themselves.

Role Models in Society

Role models are people who teens look up to and want to be like. These can be parents, teachers, coaches, celebrities, or community leaders. Positive role models show teens how to act with honesty, kindness, courage, and respect. When teens see someone they admire behaving well, it encourages them to develop similar attitudes. Negative role models, however, can influence teens to adopt bad attitudes, such as disrespect or selfishness.

How Society Shapes Teen Character

Character is the set of qualities that make a person who they are on the inside. It includes things like honesty, responsibility, kindness, and courage. Society helps teens build their character in many important ways.

Learning by Watching Others

Teens learn a lot by watching the people around them. When they see adults and peers acting fairly, helping others, and standing up for what is right, they begin to understand the importance of these qualities. If teens see selfishness, dishonesty, or cruelty being accepted or rewarded, it can harm their character development.

Understanding Right and Wrong

Society has rules, laws, and consequences for actions. When teens see that bad behavior leads to punishment or loss of trust, they learn to make better choices. This helps them understand the difference between right and wrong. For example, if a teen steals and is caught, the experience teaches them that stealing is not acceptable. This process helps build a strong moral character.

Being Part of a Community

Being involved in clubs, sports teams, religious groups, or volunteer organizations gives teens a chance to practice important character traits. They learn responsibility by showing up on time, teamwork by working with others, and leadership by helping guide a group. These experiences help teens grow into adults who care about others and contribute positively to society.

Developing Independence and Personal Values

As teens get older, they start to think more for themselves. They begin to question what they have been taught and decide what they believe is important. This process helps teens develop their own personal values and a strong character that is not just based on following others. Society provides the environment and experiences that help teens grow into independent, thoughtful adults.

The Role of Parents, Teachers, and Community

While society as a whole influences teens, certain people have a special role in guiding them. Parents, teachers, and community leaders can help teens navigate the many pressures and influences they face.

Parents can create a loving and supportive home where teens feel safe to express themselves and learn from mistakes. They can talk openly with teens about the challenges they face and help them understand the difference between good and bad behavior.

Teachers can create a positive school environment where respect and kindness are valued. They can encourage teens to think critically about what they see in media and peer groups and help them develop their own opinions and values.

Community leaders and organizations can provide safe places for teens to gather, learn new skills, and volunteer. These opportunities help teens feel connected and valued, which supports positive development.

Society is a powerful force that shapes how teenagers behave, what attitudes they develop, and the character they build. Family, friends, schools, neighborhoods, media, and cultural values all work together to influence teens in many ways. Positive influences help teens grow into kind, responsible, and confident adults. Negative influences can lead to confusion, risky behavior, or low self-esteem.

It is important for parents, teachers, and communities to provide good role models, safe environments, and open communication to support teens. Encouraging teens to think for themselves and develop their own values helps them become strong individuals who can make good choices and contribute positively to the world.

In the end, while society shapes teens, teens also have the power to choose their own paths and create the kind of future they want for themselves.

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how does society affect behavior in teens

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How Society Affects the Behavior, Attitude, and Character of Teens

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Teens' behavior, attitude, and character are largely shaped up by the society. It plays a huge role in helping or destroying them.

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Middle schoolers are young people in transition, moving from the known environment of elementary school into an entirely new academic world. The skills and habits learned during this time can help or harm their future transitions into high school, higher education, and beyond.

Understanding the issues middle school students face allows parents and teachers to help these learners navigate the sometimes bumpy road into early adulthood. While your child's journey will be as unique as they are, chances are they will share these common problems that most middle school students face.

1. Establishing Their Own Identity

Middle school students are often experiencing the early changes of adolescence, when they begin to explore the differences between themselves, their parents, and their siblings. One feature of this is expressing their individuality in new ways.

Young people may feel vulnerable about their changing appearance or their defined gender role in society. They may also seem to detach themselves as they gain independence. This means that parents and teachers will need to recognize that their changing behavior is a natural part of developing and expressing their own identity.

Be sure to support your middle school student as they begin to choose their own clothes and activities for school. Help them make choices, rather than making all decisions on these topics, which have suddenly become essential to their growing independence and self-esteem.

2. More Challenging Learning Material

Academic pressure is another one of the issues middle school students face as they make this transition. Moving to middle school brings with it a change to classes which are focused on one subject at a time and are taught by different teachers. The subjects themselves are more challenging, and they are taught in a different way.

There is a much greater sense of competition, and the importance of grades and academic achievements becomes apparent to the young person as they enter this new environment. Suddenly instead of all students being guided on a single path to success, there are choices, tryouts, and recognition directly based on their talents and abilities.

Keep in mind during this phase of life that there are many other problems and challenges involved in being a middle school student. Gentle guidance and avoiding extra pressure by talking about colleges and careers too soon will help your child find their footing in this more strenuous academic environment.

3. Understanding Social Pressures

As an early adolescent, common school experiences can feel magnified. It is normal for middle schoolers to feel emotionally insecure, and allow minor slights or disappointments to overwhelm them.

Social issues in school might center around:

Early experiences with romance

Peer pressure to use drugs or alcohol

Finding healthy (or unhealthy) friendships

Socializing without adult supervision

While it might seem too early for concerns like these, they are real problems that middle school students face in today's society. These young people are learning how to guide their own experience by making choices and witnessing consequences. Helping to keep them safe during this essential phase of life depends on keeping the lines of communication open about social pressures they are experiencing.

4. Standing Strong Against Bullying

Middle school students spend more time moving independently between classes and activities, and socializing with friends. Along with greater independence comes more possibilities for bullying and verbal abuse to happen. While parents and teachers are essential to promoting educational environments that protect students from bullying, this is the age at which children will face and learn to deal with the issue on their own.

Building the right social circle outside of the home will help children learn to stand together against bullying, by preventing, discouraging, and reporting bullying wherever they encounter it. Helping your child recognize the value of those who are different from themselves, and their own inherent right to be different is an ongoing process. Talking directly about bullying and being a good role model will help your middle school student avoid being bullied or engaging in bullying behavior themselves.

5. Meeting New Deadlines and Expectations

In elementary school, students typically have one teacher most of the day, and perhaps an elective teacher in art or PE. This means that the teacher is aware of all outstanding assignments and deadlines their students must meet. Once your child moves to middle school, they need to learn to manage multiple deadlines at once, and manage their time against competing priorities.

Recognizing that they need to complete some things before they are due in order to complete other projects in time is a difficult task for anyone. Changing to a block schedule with six to eight different teachers expecting focused attention and academic performance on their subject puts new pressures on middle school students. You can help your young person with strategies in time management, organization, and planning that will enable them to meet these rising expectations.

6. Communicating Effectively

When one teacher sees the same student all day, every day, a relationship is developed that makes communication easier for the student and their parents. That instructor also has more opportunity to notice when a student is struggling or their needs are not being met.

In the new environment of middle school, it is more important than ever that a young person learns to communicate proactively and ask for help when they need it. If they are overwhelmed, bored, or falling behind, this communication is often the difference between success and failure. Help and encourage your child to talk to their teachers and take full advantage of the dedication most instructors have to meeting the needs of all students.

7. Learning to Cope With Failure

In elementary school the expectation is that all children can reach proficiency in all the core topics. Middle school may be the first time a young person fails to succeed at something they try hard to do. These might be academic challenges, social pressures, or relationship issues.

None of us are good at everything, and there are many lessons to be learned from mistakes and failures. Every young person discovers that they might work hard on something that doesn't come easy to them and can learn the value of persisting at it, even when the results are less than perfect. Whether it's their first broken heart or their first failing grade, these sometimes painful experiences are essential to developing into a well-rounded young adult.

8. Developing Strong Self-Esteem

It is inevitable that each child will face blows to their self-esteem in middle school. Expanding the academic environment to include so many more subjects, teachers, and peers broadens their experience and brings obstacles to light. Learning to value and love yourself as you face these realities builds stronger self-esteem.

Encourage young people to pursue their own interests, talents, and passions during this time. Discovering what you are good at and passionate about is life affirming and empowering for young people, and will help them avoid social pressures that lead to poor choices. By valuing what is unique and precious about yourself, you develop resistance to negative self-images.

Changing the Middle School Environmental Pressures

Not every student thrives in the same educational environment. When these problems that middle school students face cannot be overcome in their current classroom setting, there are many other innovative middle school approaches available.

At Lydian Academy, for example, middle school students have the advantages of a one-on-one relationship with their teachers and can attend virtually or in person at our campuses in Burlingame and Palo Alto, CA. Our curriculum covers all 5 primary domains, including language, social studies, math, sciences, and world languages.

This approach lessens many social pressures students face and allows them to focus on areas and topics that they feel passionate about, while leveraging one-on-one attention on skill gaps and areas of challenge. Gaining confidence and preparing for a bright academic future is the focus of your child's educational experience at Lydian. Contact us today to attend a virtual open house or learn more about full-time middle and high school at Lydian Academy.

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Challenges Middle School Students Face | Lydian Academy

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What are the problems middle school students face, and how can parents help these young people with academic, personal growth, and social issues in school?

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There are four major areas where middle school kids are changing.

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Why Are Teens So Easily Influenced By Peer Pressure?

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Discover why peer pressure has such a strong influence on teens and how it shapes their behavior, choices, and social dynamics.

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Social and emotional changes: pre-teens and teenagers

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Adolescence is a time of big social changes and emotional changes for your child. Here’s what to expect and how to support your child through the changes.

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"Now!" whispered Suki. "Quick, while the clerk's not looking."

Heart pounding, Leah leaned against the store's unattended makeup display and slid two tubes of lipstick into her purse. She looked bored and detached as she followed her friends Suki and Jill out of the store, but inside she felt panicked.

"I can't believe you made me do that," Leah wailed.

"Relax," said Jill. "Everybody does it sometimes. And we didn't make you do it."

She said nothing, but Leah knew she wouldn't have done that on her own. She'd just had a big dose of peer pressure.

Who Are Your Peers?

When you were a little kid, your parents usually chose your friends, putting you in play groups or arranging play dates with certain children they knew and liked. Now that you're older, you decide who your friends are and what groups you spend time with.

Your friends - your peers - are people your age or close to it who have experiences and interests similar to yours. You and your friends make dozens of decisions every day, and you influence each other's choices and behaviors. This is often positive - it's human nature to listen to and learn from other people in your age group.

As you become more independent, your peers naturally play a greater role in your life. As school and other activities take you away from home, you may spend more time with peers than you do with your parents and siblings. You'll probably develop close friendships with some of your peers, and you may feel so connected to them that they are like an extended family.

Besides close friends, your peers include other kids you know who are the same age - like people in your grade, church, sports team, or community. These peers also influence you by the way they dress and act, things they're involved in, and the attitudes they show.

It's natural for people to identify with and compare themselves to their peers as they consider how they wish to be (or think they should be), or what they want to achieve. People are influenced by peers because they want to fit in, be like peers they admire, do what others are doing, or have what others have.

Page 1

Peer Influence Isn't All Bad

You already know that the teen years can be tough. You're figuring out who you are, what you believe, what you're good at, what your responsibilities are, and what your place in the world is going to be.

It's comforting to face those challenges with friends who are into the same things that you are. But you probably hear adults - parents, teachers, guidance counselors, etc. - talk about peer pressure more than the benefits of belonging to a peer group.

You might not hear a lot about it, but peers have a profoundly positive influence on each other and play important roles in each other's lives:

Friendship. Among peers you can find friendship and acceptance, and share experiences that can build lasting bonds.

Positive examples. Peers set plenty of good examples for each other. Having peers who are committed to doing well in school or to doing their best in a sport can influence you to be more goal-oriented, too. Peers who are kind and loyal influence you to build these qualities in yourself. Even peers you've never met can be role models! For example, watching someone your age compete in the Olympics, give a piano concert, or spearhead a community project might inspire you to go after a dream of your own.

Feedback and advice. Your friends listen and give you feedback as you try out new ideas, explore belief, and discuss problems. Peers can help you make decisions, too: what courses to take; whether to get your hair cut, let it grow, or dye it; how to handle a family argument. Peers often give each other good advice. Your friends will be quick to tell you when they think you're making a mistake or doing something risky.

Socializing. Your peer group gives you opportunities to try out new social skills. Getting to know lots of different people - such as classmates or teammates - gives you a chance to learn how to expand your circle of friends, build relationships, and work out differences. You may have peers you agree or disagree with, compete with, or team with, peers you admire, and peers you don't want to be like.

Encouragement. Peers encourage you to work hard to get the solo in the concert, help you study, listen and support you when you're upset or troubled, and empathize with you when they've experienced similar difficulties.

New experiences. Your peers might get you involved in clubs, sports, or religious groups. Your world would be far less rich without peers to encourage you try sushi for the first time, listen to a CD you've never heard before, or to offer moral support when you audition for the school play.

Page 2

When the Pressure's On

Sometimes, though, the stresses in your life can actually come from your peers. They may pressure you into doing something you're uncomfortable with, such as shoplifting, doing drugs or drinking, taking dangerous risks when driving a car, or having sex before you feel ready.

This pressure may be expressed openly ("Oh, come on - it's just one beer, and everyone else is having one") or more indirectly - simply making beer available at a party, for instance.

Most peer pressure is less easy to define. Sometimes a group can make subtle signals without saying anything at all - letting you know that you must dress or talk a certain way or adopt particular attitudes toward school, other students, parents, and teachers in order to win acceptance and approval.

The pressure to conform (to do what others are doing) can be powerful and hard to resist. A person might feel pressure to do something just because others are doing it (or say they are). Peer pressure can influence a person to do something that is relatively harmless - or something that has more serious consequences. Giving in to the pressure to dress a certain way is one thing - going along with the crowd to drink or smoke is another.

People may feel pressure to conform so they fit in or are accepted, or so they don't feel awkward or uncomfortable. When people are unsure of what to do in a social situation, they naturally look to others for cues about what is and isn't acceptable.

The people who are most easily influenced will follow someone else's lead first. Then others may go along, too - so it can be easy to think, "It must be OK. Everyone else is doing it. They must know what they're doing." Before you know it, many people are going along with the crowd - perhaps on something they might not otherwise do.

Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature - but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. People who are low on confidence and those who tend to follow rather than lead could be more likely to seek their peers' approval by giving in to a risky challenge or suggestion. People who are unsure of themselves, new to the group, or inexperienced with peer pressure may also be more likely to give in.

Using alcohol or drugs increases anyone's chances of giving in to peer pressure. Substance use impairs judgment and interferes with the ability to make good decisions.

Page 3

Pressure Pointers

Nearly everyone ends up in a sticky peer pressure situation at some point. No matter how wisely you choose your friends, or how well you think you know them, sooner or later you'll have to make decisions that are difficult and could be unpopular. It may be something as simple as resisting the pressure to spend your hard-earned babysitting money on the latest MP3 player that "everybody" has. Or it may mean deciding to take a stand that makes you look uncool to your group.

But these situations can be opportunities to figure out what is right for you. There's no magic to standing up to peer pressure, but it does take courage - yours:

Listen to your gut. If you feel uncomfortable, even if your friends seem to be OK with what's going on, it means that something about the situation is wrong for you. This kind of decision-making is part of becoming self-reliant and learning more about who you are.

Plan for possible pressure situations. If you'd like to go to a party but you believe you may be offered alcohol or drugs there, think ahead about how you'll handle this challenge. Decide ahead of time - and even rehearse - what you'll say and do. Learn a few tricks. If you're holding a bottle of water or a can of soda, for instance, you're less likely to be offered a drink you don't want.

Arrange a "bail-out" code phrase you can use with your parents without losing face with your peers. You might call home from a party at which you're feeling pressured to drink alcohol and say, for instance, "Can you come and drive me home? I have a terrible earache."

Learn to feel comfortable saying "no." With good friends you should never have to offer an explanation or apology. But if you feel you need an excuse for, say, turning down a drink or smoke, think up a few lines you can use casually. You can always say, "No, thanks, I've got a belt test in karate next week and I'm in training," or "No way - my uncle just died of cirrhosis and I'm not even looking at any booze."

Hang with people who feel the same way you do. Choose friends who will speak up with you when you're in need of moral support, and be quick to speak up for a friend in the same way. If you're hearing that little voice telling you a situation's not right, chances are others hear it, too. Just having one other person stand with you against peer pressure makes it much easier for both people to resist.

Blame your parents: "Are you kidding? If my mom found out, she'd kill me, and her spies are everywhere."

If a situation seems dangerous, don't hesitate to get an adult's help.

It's not always easy to resist negative peer pressure, but when you do, it is easy to feel good about it afterward. And you may even be a positive influence on your peers who feel the same way - often it just takes one person to speak out or take a different action to change a situation. Your friends may follow if you have the courage to do something different or refuse to go along with the group. Consider yourself a leader, and know that you have the potential to make a difference.

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Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature - but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.

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What Is Peer Pressure?

People who are your age, like your classmates, are called peers. When they try to get you to act a certain way, or try to get you to do something, it's called peer pressure.

You might want to be like your peers, even if they're not pressuring you. It's natural to want to fit in.

It's OK to like what your friends and classmates like, or do what they do, as long as it feels right for you, too. But the best thing of all is to be yourself - even if it means being different from your peers.

How Do Peers Affect You?

Peers affect each other just by spending time together. You learn from them, and they learn from you. It's natural to listen to and learn from other people your age.

Peers can affect you in lots of ways. For example, you might see what kids in your class are wearing, like it, and wear something like that, too. It goes both ways. Your peers might watch what you do and start doing it, too.

Peers can influence each other in good ways. Maybe a kid in your science class taught you an easy way to remember the planets in the solar system. Maybe you admire a friend who is a good sport, and you try to be more like them. Maybe you got others excited about your new favorite book and now everyone's reading it.

But peers also can influence each other in ways that aren't so good. They might try to pressure you into doing something you know is wrong. For example, what if a few kids in school try to get you to cut class with them? What if your soccer teammate tries to convince you to be mean to another player and never pass them the ball? What if a kid in the neighborhood wants you to shoplift with them?
What would you do?
Would you give in and go along with peer pressure? Or would you walk away from peer pressure when you know it's not right?

Sometimes it's easier to know the right thing to do than it is to do it. Thinking about it ahead of time helps you be ready to do what's right. And when you do what's right, you might set a good example for your peers.

Why Do Some Kids Give in to Peer Pressure?

Some kids give in to peer pressure because they want to be liked or they think it helps them fit in. Some worry that other kids might tease them if they don't go along with the group. Others go along because they are curious. Maybe they want to try something that others are doing. They might go along if they think, "Everyone's doing it," even though they know better.

How to Say No to Peer Pressure

Know what's right. Trust your own feelings about what's right and wrong. Ask yourself, "Is it the right thing to do?" You probably already know the answer. When you know the right thing to do, it helps you stand firm.

Have a friend who will stand with you. It can really help to have at least one other peer who is willing to say "No," too. This takes a lot of the power out of peer pressure. It's great to have friends who will back you up when you don't want to do something.

Help a friend. Maybe you notice that a friend is having trouble saying no to peer pressure. You can help by saying, "I'm with you - let's go."

Walk away. If you're faced with peer pressure while you're alone, there are still things you can do. You can stay away from peers who pressure you to do stuff you know is wrong. You can tell them, "Nah" and walk away. Better yet, find other friends and classmates to hang around with.

Get advice from an adult. If you face peer pressure that's hard to handle, get advice from an adult you trust. Talk to a parent, teacher, or school counselor. It can help you feel much better. Plus, they can help you prepare for the next time you face peer pressure.

Positive Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is not always a bad thing. For example, peers can lead kids to treat each other with kindness, fairness, and friendship. When enough kids get together, they can lead each other into doing what's right!

Date reviewed: February 2022

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Understanding the Journey

Coping with a physical disability involves more than just managing physical limitations; it also requires navigating the complex emotional and psychological challenges that accompany such a profound life change. Whether a disability is congenital or acquired, individuals often encounter a myriad of mental health issues, driven by factors like social exclusion, stigma, and accessibility barriers. This article explores effective coping strategies, the impact of physical disabilities on mental health, and the role of support systems in fostering resilience.

Coping Strategies to Enhance Emotional Well-being

What are effective coping strategies for individuals with physical disabilities?

Navigating life with a physical disability can be challenging, but there are effective coping strategies that can enhance emotional well-being:

1. Maintain a Strong Support System
Connecting with family, friends, and support groups can reduce feelings of isolation and enhance emotional support. Shared experiences and advice can foster a sense of belonging.

2. Engage in Hobbies
Pursuing creative activities like painting, journaling, or cooking serves as a joyful distraction from daily stressors. Engaging in meaningful hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

3. Regular Physical Exercise
Exercise is more than just physical activity; it's a mood booster. It releases endorphins that can elevate mood and improve concentration, making it an essential part of daily routines.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Practices like meditation, breathing exercises, and aromatherapy can promote relaxation. These techniques help manage stress levels and contribute to emotional regulation.

5. Control Environmental Stimuli
For those with Sensory Processing Disorder, identifying personal sensory triggers and modifying environments can greatly enhance daily experiences. Simple adjustments in surroundings can enable better navigation through life.

These strategies not only empower individuals but also foster resilience, promoting a healthier mental state in the face of challenges associated with physical disabilities.

The Profound Impact of Physical Disabilities on Mental Health

How does having a physical disability impact mental health?

Having a physical disability can significantly undermine mental health, impacting emotional well-being on several levels. Statistical findings indicate that the prevalence of depression among individuals with physical disabilities can be up to 10 times higher than in their non-disabled counterparts. Factors contributing to this heightened risk include:

Restricted Mobility: Limitation in physical movement can lead to feelings of isolation and dependency, affecting social interactions and relationships.

Accessibility Issues: Difficulty in accessing public spaces or activities can exacerbate loneliness and hinder participation in social events, increasing emotional distress.

Social Stigma: Discrimination and negative societal attitudes towards disabilities often result in low self-esteem and compounded feelings of helplessness.

Economic Challenges: Higher unemployment rates and financial instability can exacerbate stress and anxiety, leaving individuals more vulnerable to mental health issues.

Co-occurring Conditions: Chronic pain and additional health issues may compound existing mental health challenges, creating a cycle of discomfort and emotional turmoil.

These factors highlight that the intersection of physical disability and mental health requires a nuanced approach. Supportive environments and effective therapeutic interventions can play a crucial role in alleviating these negative impacts, emphasizing the significance of community support and mental health resources.

Providing Emotional Support to Individuals with Disabilities

How can one emotionally support a person with a physical disability?

To emotionally support someone with a physical disability, it's essential to create an environment that fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. Here's how you can contribute:

Encourage Hobbies and Interests: Help them explore new hobbies, engage in volunteer work, or consider adopting a pet. These activities can combat feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.

Recognize Signs of Distress: Be observant of their emotional state. Mood changes, withdrawal from activities, or expressions of sadness might indicate they need extra support.

Open Conversations: Initiate discussions about mental health to reduce stigma. Acknowledge and validate their feelings, creating a safe space for them to express themselves.

Foster Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide stability and predictability, helping them feel in control of their lives. A structured schedule can enhance their mental well-being.

Be There: Consistent emotional availability is key. Whether it's through words of encouragement, shared experiences, or simply being present, your support can profoundly impact their emotional health.

Ultimately, patience, understanding, and companionship are vital in navigating the challenges associated with physical disabilities.

Understanding Congenital and Acquired Disabilities

What is the distinction between congenital and acquired disabilities?

Congenital disabilities are conditions that are present at birth, whereas acquired disabilities develop later in life due to various factors, including illness or injury. This fundamental distinction plays a key role in how individuals adapt to their circumstances.

Individuals with congenital disabilities often demonstrate what researchers refer to as a "congenital advantage." They tend to have a better-developed disability self-concept because they have had their entire lives to adjust to their condition from an early age. In contrast, those with acquired disabilities may struggle more with acceptance and adaptation due to the abrupt changes in their lives.

The societal perception of these two types of disabilities can differ significantly. People with congenital disabilities are frequently stigmatized, yet are less likely to be blamed for their condition. On the other hand, those with acquired disabilities often face heightened discrimination, which can exacerbate feelings of isolation and depression. This variance not only affects mental health outcomes but also the experience of social relationships. Overall, the type of disability can significantly influence an individual's coping mechanisms, self-esteem, and mental resilience.

Type of Disability

Impact on Self-Perception

Societal Perception

Mental Health Outcomes

Congenital

Better self-concept

More stigma, less blame

Generally favorable

Acquired

Struggles with acceptance

Higher discrimination

Increased distress

Common Psychological Issues Faced by Disabled Individuals

What are the psychological issues commonly faced by people with disabilities?

People with disabilities encounter a multitude of psychological challenges. Depression is prevalent, affecting around 30% of individuals with disabilities, whose rates are significantly higher compared to the general population. Anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also common, with approximately 25% of disabled individuals experiencing anxiety disorders.

Social isolation, driven by physical limitations and relational discrimination, intensifies these mental health struggles. Many disabled individuals report feelings of loneliness, often feeling disconnected from society. Almost 50% of people with disabilities experience feelings of isolation, which can lead to further distress.

The impact of stigmatization from society dramatically contributes to low self-esteem, pushing individuals towards feelings of inadequacy and helplessness. Economic factors also play a role; many face significant financial challenges due to reduced employment opportunities, which can lead to a cycle of anxiety and depression.

Barriers in accessing quality mental health services, such as high costs and stigma, can impede treatment options and exacerbate these emotional difficulties. Overall, the interplay of societal attitudes, discrimination, and limited resources significantly undermines the psychological well-being of individuals with disabilities.

Exploring Psychosocial Interventions

What psychosocial interventions are effective for managing mental health in individuals with disabilities?

A recent review on psychosocial interventions focused on their effectiveness in handling mental health concerns specifically for individuals with disabilities, particularly after traumatic physical injuries. The findings were mixed, with no strong evidence supporting the efficacy of brief psychological therapies or educational materials meant to prevent further disability. However, one study did indicate that a collaborative care approach could lead to a temporary reduction in PTSD and depressive symptoms.

Despite this, the overall data suggests that certain psychosocial interventions could potentially cause deterioration in mental health for some individuals. While there are promising indications suggesting that group-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) exercises offer benefits for those with physical disabilities, the need for more comprehensive research remains crucial.

Key Takeaways on Psychosocial Interventions

Brief Psychological Therapies

No strong evidence found

May not prevent disability effectively

Collaborative Care

Temporary reduction in PTSD and depressive symptoms

Short-lived benefits need further investigation

Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Promising for enhancing mental health

Requires rigorous studies for consistent results

In conclusion, while there's some promise in targeted group therapies, especially CBT, rigorous, consistent research is necessary to better understand the most effective psychosocial strategies for this population.

The Role of Support Systems in Mental Health

The importance of building support networks for individuals with disabilities

Building a robust support network is vital for individuals living with disabilities, particularly in maintaining their mental health and emotional well-being. This network can include family, friends, support groups, and community organizations, each playing a crucial role in combating feelings of isolation and loneliness that often accompany disabilities.

Engaging with support groups provides opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences. These interactions can lead to the sharing of resources and coping strategies, helping individuals feel less alone in their struggles. Additionally, participating in community or faith-based organizations further aids in social integration, significantly improving mental health outcomes by fostering a sense of belonging.

Emotional Support and Mental Resilience

Support systems not only offer emotional comfort but also encourage individuals to accept their situation and pursue new goals. By advocating for themselves and seeking help when needed, individuals can bolster their capacity to adapt to their disabilities. Furthermore, consistent emotional support strengthens relationships, promoting a healing environment that nurtures resilience.

Engaging with Professional Support

Professional support, such as therapy and counseling, can also enhance the benefits of personal support networks. The combination of trusted individuals and professional guidance paves the way for better management of mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, making it crucial for individuals with disabilities to prioritize building and nurturing these supportive connections.

Building Resilience and Advocating for Change

How Can We Develop Resilience?

Building resilience is about developing the ability to adapt and thrive despite the challenges posed by disabilities. Setting realistic goals is a cornerstone of this process. Individuals can cultivate resilience through:

Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as yoga and meditation help improve emotional regulation and reduce stress.

Engaging in Hobbies: Finding new interests fosters a sense of purpose and belonging, combating feelings of worthlessness.

Journaling: This can facilitate emotional expression, allowing individuals to process their thoughts and feelings.

Why is Advocacy Important?

Advocacy plays a vital role in improving mental health care for individuals with disabilities. By understanding their rights, individuals can:

Demand necessary accommodations in various societal sectors.

Address systemic barriers to access quality mental health services, which are often minimal for this demographic due to stigma and discrimination.

Work towards creating a more inclusive community environment that recognizes both physical and mental health challenges.

Fostering connections with support groups also contributes to resilience. These networks enable individuals to share experiences and resources, significantly enhancing their emotional well-being. By combining personal resilience strategies with advocacy, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life and mental health outcomes.

Moving Forward with Strength and Understanding

Navigating the emotional landscape after acquiring a physical disability is undoubtedly challenging, yet filled with opportunities for growth and resilience. By emphasizing coping strategies, fostering supportive relationships, and advocating for greater mental health resources, individuals can cultivate a sense of agency and well-being in their lives. Understanding how physical disabilities intersect with mental health is crucial for both individuals and the societies that support them - ensuring that compassion, accommodation, and respect are at the forefront of the conversation. With continued awareness and dedication, those with disabilities can thrive, supported by a community that understands and values their journey.

References

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How to Cope with the Mental Effects of Physical Disability

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Navigating the Intersection of Physical Disability and Mental Health

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Simple In-Home Activities For People With Disabilities | Nurse Next Door

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Life without any form of recreational activity can become dull, and cause a negative impact on our overall health and wellbeing. Keeping ourselves physically

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Most Common Social Barriers for Persons With Disabilities

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Explore some of the most common social barriers for persons with disabilities and how you can create a more accessible and inclusive environment.

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Challenges and Solutions for Students with Disabilities | Covey

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A classroom should feel like a comfortable place to learn and grow among peers. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

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Raising a child with a disability can be extremely challenging. These caregiving tips can help you overcome obstacles and cope with difficult emotions.

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School bullying and mental health among adolescents: a narrative review

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School bullying is a prevalent public health problem that adversely impacts adolescents’ mental health. Defined as intentional, repeated, and harmful aggressive behaviors among peers, bullying leads to severe psychological distress, including…

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The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

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Bullying can severely affect a child’s or teen’s self-image, social interactions, or school performance, and can lead to mental health problems.

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The Emotional Cost of Bullying on Kids and Teens

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Bullying leaves more than bruises—it can lead to anxiety, depression, and lasting trauma. Learn how it affects young minds and what adults can do to help.

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Bullying can affect everyone-those who are bullied, those who bully, and those who witness bullying. Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide. It is important to talk to kids to determine whether bullying-or something else-is a concern.

Kids Who are Bullied

Kids who are bullied can experience negative physical, social, emotional, academic, and mental health issues. Kids who are bullied are more likely to experience:

Depression and anxiety, increased feelings of sadness and loneliness, changes in sleep and eating patterns, and loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy. These issues may persist into adulthood.

Health complaints

Decreased academic achievement-GPA and standardized test scores-and school participation. They are more likely to miss, skip, or drop out of school.

A very small number of bullied children might retaliate through extremely violent measures. In 12 of 15 school shooting cases in the 1990s, the shooters had a history of being bullied.

Kids Who Bully Others

Kids who bully others can also engage in violent and other risky behaviors into adulthood. Kids who bully are more likely to:

Abuse alcohol and other drugs in adolescence and as adults

Get into fights, vandalize property, and drop out of school

Engage in early sexual activity

Have criminal convictions and traffic citations as adults

Be abusive toward their romantic partners, spouses, or children as adults

Bystanders

Kids who witness bullying are more likely to:

Have increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs

Have increased mental health problems, including depression and anxiety

Miss or skip school

The Relationship between Bullying and Suicide

Media reports often link bullying with suicide. However, most youth who are bullied do not have thoughts of suicide or engage in suicidal behaviors.

Although kids who are bullied are at risk of suicide, bullying alone is not the cause. Many issues contribute to suicide risk, including depression, problems at home, and trauma history. This risk can be increased further when these kids are not supported by parents, peers, and schools. Bullying can make an unsupportive situation worse.

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Bullying can negatively impact mental health and well-being.

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What Is Morquio A Syndrome?

Morquio A syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis IVA; MPS IVA) is one of a group of disorders called

mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS). In MPS, there's either not enough of the enzyme that breaks down a type of sugar called glycosaminoglycans (or mucopolysaccharides) or none at all. The sugar builds up and leads to vision, hearing, bone, brain, and heart problems. Kids who do have some of the enzyme will have milder symptoms.

Medical care and treatments can help with symptoms of Morquio (MORE-kee-oh) A syndrome. And researchers are learning more all the time about ways to help people who have it live better.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Morquio A Syndrome?

Signs of Morquio A syndrome usually begin around a child's first birthday. Morquio A syndrome is a skeletal dysplasia, a condition that affects the growth of

cartilageand bone. This leads to:

short stature (height less than other people the same age)

curved spine (scoliosis or kyphosis)

"hypermobile" joints (joints that are more flexible than normal)

knock-knees (knees curve in)

a chest that juts out (pectus carinatum)

misshapen arms and legs

problems with teeth

unstable vertebrae (bones of the spine)

cord compression (when the vertebrae press on the spine)

Other signs include:

an enlarged liver

hearing problems

vision problems

heart problems

Morquio A syndrome is progressive. This means that it gets worse over time. Morquio A syndrome does not affect thinking and learning abilities.

What Problems Can Happen?

People with Morquio A syndrome can have unstable vertebrae. The vertebrae (bones that make up the spine) can slip and put pressure on the spinal cord (cord compression). Cord compression can come on slowly, starting with tiredness and weakness. Over time, it may lead to problems with walking and breathing.

What Causes Morquio A Syndrome?

A gene mutation (change) causes Morquio A syndrome. The mutation causes problems with cartilage and bone growth and other medical problems. It's is an inherited condition, and children who have it got one changed gene from each parent.

A genetic counselor can help families understand how Morquio A syndrome can run in families.

How Is Morquio A Syndrome Diagnosed?

To diagnose Morquio A syndrome, doctors do:

an exam

blood tests and urine (pee) tests to look at enzyme levels

genetic testing

imaging studies like X-rays and MRIs

an echocardiogram to check the heart

hearing tests and vision tests

How Is Morquio A Syndrome Treated?

A team of medical specialists cares for people with Morquio A syndrome. They can include:

Medical researchers are looking for ways to help people with Morquio A syndrome. Some treatments that are developing include:

weekly enzyme replacement therapy

gene therapy: to replace genes that make the needed enzymes

bone marrow transplant: to replace cells with missing or lacking enzyme with normal cells

How Can Parents Help?

The severity of Morquio A syndrome varies from person to person. There is no way to predict how someone will be affected. To help your child:

Teach your child about Morquio A syndrome.

Take your child to all medical visits.

Keep a written record of your child's symptoms, treatments, and doctor visits.

Take care of yourself so you can care for your child.

Treat your child according to their age, not their size, and encourage others to do the same.

Answer questions as simply as possible. If someone asks what is wrong, for example, say, "Zara has a bone disorder." Then, mention something special about your child. For example, "Zara has lots of interests. You should see her book collection." This shows your child that many things make them special.

Find ways to adapt. For example, get a light switch extender and a stepstool so your child can turn the lights on and off. Encourage school staff to make similar changes to help your child, such as lower chairs and/or feet support.

Teach your child that being teased or bullied is not OK. If they're teased or bullied at school, work with your child, teachers, and administrators to end it.

Encourage your child to find a hobby or activity to enjoy. Help them try different activities like music, art, computers, writing, and photography.

What Else Should I Know?

The care team will work with you to give your child the best possible chance for a healthy future. Your child will need lifelong care, and at times this might feel overwhelming. Talk to anyone on the care team or a hospital social worker about resources that can help you and your child.

Support groups also can be helpful for kids and their families. Ask the care team for recommendations. You also can find support and more information online at:

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Morquio A syndrome causes growth problems and also can affect the heart and cause hearing and vision problems. Medical care and treatments can help with these problems.

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Morquio Syndrome | Boston Children’s Hospital

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Morquio syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects a child’s bones and spine, organs, and physical abilities. Learn more from Boston Children’s.

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Morquio syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects bone growth. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment options for this condition.

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What is Morquio syndrome?

Morquio syndrome is a rare inherited birth defect that is estimated to occur in one of every 200,000 births. The disease may not be visible at birth; symptoms usually begin between ages 1 and 3. Morquio syndrome is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms get worse as a child grows.

Morquio syndrome is part of a group of diseases called mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS). Morquio is also known as MPS IV.

In children with Morquio syndrome, the body cannot break down sugar chains called glycosaminoglycans that help build bone, cartilage, eye corneas, skin and connective tissue (such as tendons, ligaments, etc.)

People with glycosaminoglycans diseases either do not produce enough of the enzymes needed to break sugar chains into simpler molecules, or they produce enzymes that do not work normally. As a result, glycosaminoglycans collect in cells, blood and connective tissue and cause damage over time. There are two types of Morquio syndrome:

Type A, in which an enzyme called galactosamine-6-sulfatase is missing

Type B, in which there isn't enough of the enzyme beta-galactosidase

The damage caused by the lack of either of these enzymes affects a child's appearance, organ function and physical abilities. Children may develop:

A pronounced curvature of the spine (i.e. scoliosis or kyphosis)

Cloudy corneas of the eyes

A heart murmur

Inguinal hernia

Liver enlargement

Loss of nerve function below the neck

Several different syndromes occur as a result of the inability to break down glycosaminoglycans, including Hurler syndrome.

Causes

Morquio syndrome is an autosomal recessive trait, which means both parents must carry the gene that causes Morquio for a child to have the disorder.

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of Morquio syndrome include:

Short stature, with a very short torso

Abnormal bone and spine development, including severe scoliosis

Bell-shaped chest with ribs flared out at the bottom

Hypermobile joints (joints that are very easy to bend in unusual positions, such as being able to bend the knees behind the head; sometimes called "double-jointed.")

Knock-knees (knees that point inward and touch each other as the person walks)

Large head

Widely-spaced teeth

Coarse facial features which may include prominent scalp veins, flat-bridged nose and bulging forehead

Possible heart and vision problems

Testing and diagnosis

Diagnostic evaluation usually begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination of your child. At Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), clinical experts use a variety of diagnostic tests to diagnose Morquio syndrome and possible complications, including:

Genetic testing, in which a sample of your child's saliva or blood is used to identify any abnormalities in your child's DNA.

X-rays, which produce images of bones

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body

Echocardiogram, a test that determines the structure of the heart and how well it is functioning

Skin fibroblast culture, in which a small piece of skin is removed during a short surgical procedure, then tested to see how collagen and other skin substances are functioning

Eye exam and hearing test

Blood and urine tests

Treatments

Morquio syndrome is treated in many ways, because the condition can affect several body systems. The treatment a child needs depends on the severity of his symptoms. Some children might only require careful monitoring. Others may need non-surgical or surgical treatments to address specific aspects of their condition. Every child's condition is different, so treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis.

At Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, we practice collaborative, family-centered care. A team of expert clinicians - including leading physicians, pediatric nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists and other specialists - will partner with you in the care of your child.

Many children with Morquio syndrome are diagnosed with orthopedic conditions including: scoliosis, kyphosis, skeletal dysplasia, narrow chest, joint conditions and leg deformities. In some cases, these conditions are present at birth and can be treated when the child is very young.

In other cases, the complications from Morquio syndrome may only become evident - or problematic - as your child grows. This is often true for spinal deformities, limb deformities and joint issues.

Depending on your child's needs, orthopedic specialists from our Spine Program, Hip Disorders Program, Leg Disorders Program or Sports Medicine may treat your child.

For example, if your child has scoliosis, our team of specialists will consider the severity of the curve, where it occurs in the spine, and your child's age and stage of growth, before determining the best course of action. Treatment for scoliosis may include non-surgical options such as bracing and physical therapy, or surgical options such as spinal fusion or implanting growing rods to stabilize your child's spine as he continues to grow.

Follow-up care

Your child with Morquio syndrome will likely need to see several specialists throughout childhood and adolescence. At CHOP, we have expert physicians in every pediatric specialty. We offer follow-up care, ongoing support and services at our Main Campus and throughout our CHOP Care Network. Our team is committed to partnering with parents and referring physicians to provide the most current, comprehensive and specialized care possible for your child.

If your family has a history of Morquio syndrome, genetic counseling is recommended - especially if you are considering having more children.

Outlook

Long-term outcomes for children with Morquio syndrome vary from child to child. Most children with Morquio syndrome have normal intelligence.

Children with spine and bone conditions can have difficulty walking and may require a wheelchair; others may be more mobile. Some children have ongoing breathing, vision or cardiac issues that may become more serious in adulthood.

Current research into treatments for Morquio syndrome includes:

Enzyme replacement therapy

Gene therapy

Allogenic bone marrow transplantation

If successful, enzyme or gene therapy would replace or supplement missing enzymes.

We have created resources to help you find answers to your questions and feel more confident in the care you are providing your child.

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Morquio syndrome is a rare inherited birth defect that occurs in one of every 200,000 births. Symptoms include spine curvatures, nerve damage, inguinal hernia, as well as heart, liver and eye anomalies.