Don't burden kids: Psychologists

NAGPUR: Anxiety is an inseparable part in the life of students taking up the board examination. The pressure starts building from the time the academic session begins. Coping with it requires skill. And psychologists say some tricks do help to learn better and overcome the much-dreaded anxiety.
Psychiatrist Kausar Abbasi told TOI, "Parental pressure should be taken care of.They should never burden children with unrealistic expectations and be more tolerant and accommodative. Teachers should give extra attention to academically weaker students and overcome communication gap with students."
He said that students should prepare a timetable that keeps in mind the goals they have to achieve. Use of audio-visual techniques and interactive sessions also helps. Kausar also has a suggestion for schools. Instead of punishing students, rewarding them would create a positive attitude in them, he said. When it comes to puppy love, adolescents should learn to take it in their stride than to feel ashamed of. Teachers too should ensure that students do not feel embarrassed," he added.
Anupama Gadkari, a clinical and counselling psychologist, said that "overemphasis on academics is now fading. We should not consider the 10th and 12th standard as a different year. If we focus too much on it then we create a hype which results into mounting pressure on students. Every student should be given the liberty to prepare own timetable. Encouraging friendly and informal relations with teachers' help students learn rapidly," she said.
Mangala Hirwade, a counsellor, said that "over-expectations drive children towards depression. Therefore, students' interests should be given importance. At the same time, students should also learn to accept failure for it could be a stepping stone to success in future." She felt the need for improvised teaching techniques to make them more practical. Healthy counseling sessions for parents and students will help a lot in easing anxiety, she said.
speakoutnagpur@timesgroup.com