The impact of adolescence on the child with cerebral palsy

Pre-adolescence is the beginning of self realization that the cerebral palsied child will never be "normal." Leading questions and unexplained anger begin around the age of nine to eleven years, followed by disbelief, denial and family rejection. The occupational therapist may be the first person to whom the child or parent reveal their anxieties and hostile feelings. Counseling for self-esteem, along with an opportunity to meet successful adults who have "survived" their cerebral palsy and achieved success in the "real world," can be most helpful. Life preparation with both the parents and child should begin at about eight years of age (depending upon individual maturation). This kind of joint planning avoids many heartaches by anticipating the social rejection of peers and unrealistic expectations of "normalcy" by either the parents of the disabled child. Treatment goals and career exploration can be directed toward realistic, successful achievements.