Learn to catch yourself when you say negative statements to yourself and challenge them. Develop the positive belief that you can control destiny. Be healthily selfish, free yourself from needing outside approval. External Stress External forces also impinge upon parents of youngsters with learning disabilities. Neighbors, friends, and relatives don't understand why such a normal-acting child is having academic problems.
Teachers frequently don' t fully understand the ramifications of a child's problem.
Parents are called upon by the school to help make decisions about the child ' s academic program but often feel helpless as the child's advocate because of their own lack of understanding. Because external stressors are those that are situational, and often involve relationships with others, parents are encouraged to develop assertiveness skills. Problem-solving techniques, time management, and goal setting are helpful when dealing with stressors associated with raising children and running a household. Because coping with a child with learning disabilities is so emotionally draining, parents also are encouraged to develop intimacy skills and a support system. External Stress Factors 1.