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Why Children Need to Learn About Psychology

Starting Mental Health Education Early

By Lorraine WoiakPublished 5 years ago 4 min read
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We strive to preserve the innocence of children the best we can, shielding them from the horrors of life. But is this actually hurting them? Pain is inevitable. Poor mental health does not have to be.

The Prime Time for Learning

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Kids are inherently curious. They are always ready to learn, and they're excited to discover new things. It is no wonder they constantly ask questions or insist you tell them "why" something is the way it is.

Most psychologists agree that childhood is the prime time for learning. As you learn, you form neural pathways in your brain. In other words, you create circuits that form your beliefs and personality.

Another way to think of this is as paint on a wall. Children are a clean slate. As they learn, pictures are formed. Before the paint dries, it is easier to manipulate it or erase it. Psychologists call this neural plasticity. Material is easier to relearn when it is new, or when the individual is younger. However, as the paint dries, it is difficult to change. Adults tend to have less plasticity, and therefore they are less flexible in their beliefs than children.

Belief systems and attitudes are formed during childhood. Most of these will remain for much of our lives. If we want to teach people the importance of mental health, it is important we start educating in childhood.

Mental Health Applies to Everyone

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Mental health, and the principles of psychology impact all of us—so why is it not common knowledge?

Psychological disorders can be found among every race, every occupation, every gender, every culture, and every age. Most people suffer from some type of disorder once in their life. Today, there are rising rates in depression and anxiety along with social problems like homelessness or addiction. These are all problems that can be explained and changed through education in psychology. Mental illness is a real problem. Recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how and when to seek help is important. Teaching children how to express their emotions in a positive manner is important. Children have feelings too. They should know that they matter.

Even those who are not severely impacted by mental illness are impacted by psychology. Basic psychology principles are implemented in advertisements, pop culture, business, television, art, music, sports, animal training, warfare, and so much more. It explains the reason why we do things, or think the way we do. Understanding the basics of psychology can prevent us from falling victim to scams, or help us bring about change in society.

Psychology Spreads Acceptance

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Racism, homophobia, sexism, and other social issues often divide us. These topics are often not discussed with children. They also do not appear to happen naturally in young children, indicating that these beliefs are from purely social influence and family upbringing.

Education is the key to promoting change, and stopping these problems, as most of these negative belief systems come from a lack of education. Psychology gives us clues as to why these beliefs are formed. It also provides insight to things like sexuality and identity. Understanding these things allows us to form logical arguments, and change people's minds.

Teaching these principles also helps introduce children to such topics, and promotes acceptance and understanding. As stated earlier, beliefs are formed at a young age. When kids understand basic psychology, they can form educated belief systems, and be able to defend such beliefs effectively.

Tolerance is taught from understanding. Psychology is at the root of every social problem.

How to Start the Change

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Starting a movement seems like a big motion, but all it takes is one small step in the right direction.

Being committed and educated yourself should always be the first part of anything you do. Do some research. Apply it to your own life. Realize why this is important to you. Children mimic the adults in their lives. Be the person you want them to be.

Only after you educate yourself can you educate others. Get the children in your life interested in psychology. Show them how vast the subject is. They should know how much it impacts them.

Children Are the Future

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We all hope for a better future, and happiness for the generations to come. The children of today are the leaders of tomorrow.

Teaching kids about mental health is the first step in creating a stronger, more self-aware, and more accepting society—preventing mentally-ill and hurting adults, preventing future pain, and educating the youth.

Our children are our future, and they deserve better.

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About the Creator

Lorraine Woiak

I am a psychology and music major at the University of North Dakota. As a part of the Army ROTC program, I am working towards a career as a military psychologist.

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