Related Experiment Videos
[Assistance work in Romania. A multidisciplinary study of institutionalized children]
M S Indredavik1, J Skranes, J Skranes
1Barnepsykiatrisk avdeling, Trondheim.
Insights
A 1990 health assessment in a Romanian institution revealed widespread neglect among mentally retarded children, including malnutrition, untreated conditions, and developmental issues, highlighting urgent needs for intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Context:
- Assessment of institutionalized children in Romania in 1990.
- Focus on mentally retarded children residing in an institution.
Purpose:
- To diagnose health conditions and identify needs of institutionalized children.
- To document the extent of physical, psychological, and social neglect.
Summary:
- 154 children were diagnosed, revealing significant undernourishment, growth retardation, skin infections, injuries, and untreated deformities.
- 11 children required immediate medical care; developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy and sensory impairments were unaddressed.
- Children exhibited signs of deprivation, anxiety, and behavioral issues, despite being receptive to stimulation.
Impact:
- Highlights severe neglect impacting children's physical and psychological well-being in Romanian institutions.
- Underscores the critical need for comprehensive assistance and improved care standards for institutionalized children.
- Provides foundational data for advocating for enhanced support systems and interventions.
Abstract:
In October/November 1990 a health team worked in an institution for mentally retarded children in Rumania. The team diagnosed 154 children and encountered children with undernourishment, retarded growth, skin infections, injuries and untreated physical deformities. 11 children were in need of acute medical attention. Cerebral palsy and motoric, auditive and visual handicaps were not attended to. The children showed signs of deprivation, anxiety and behavioural maladjustment. They were mentally retarded, but receptive to stimulation. To conclude, the children suffered from physical, psychological, pedagogic and social neglect. The article provides information on the needs for further assistance to children in institutions in Rumania.