Educational, behavioural and health development can all be endangered by the repeated or extreme activation of stress response systems in the body and brain.
When threatened, our bodies respond by increasing heart rate, blood pressure and stress hormones such as cortisol. When a young child’s stress response systems are activated within an environment of supportive relationships, these responses are significantly reduced, allowing healthy stress response systems to develop. However, if the stress response is extreme and recurring, and positive adult relationships are unavailable, the result can be lifelong damage to brain architecture and other organ systems.
Responding to stress
There are three kinds of responses to stress: positive, tolerable and toxic.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here