Factores de risco na infância: O despiste precoce e a acção educativa

Abstract

To detect the first signs of disturbance in children’s adaptation to their familiar and academic environments, and to make subsequent therapeutic or educational interventions, we must have a very deep understanding of common risk factors in children’s life. To conceptualize the psychological problems in these ages in terms of risk factors we must take into account not only the complexity and multi-variated nature of these factors and their future consequences but also the most effective ways of preventing their development. We also must trace the optimal ways of confronting existing situations, individuals or groups considered to be at risk. Portuguese psychologists have a very important and difficult task aimed to develop community-based studies and interventions intended to inform and teach those involved with at-risk children. Here we present a program that we are developing with children’s in risk for developing depression.