[Epidemiological and socio-psychological aspects of accidents in childhood (author's transl)].

Abstract

The present study is based on the assumption that accidents in childhood may be interpreted as a possible result of conflicts between the children and their social environment. Questioning of 100 children who had suffered from accidents, and of their parents showed that children having incomplete families were largely overrepresented in the study group. They also had already experienced a greater number of prior accidents. Their child-development was less favourable, more parents reported unusual behavior and possible psychosomatic symptoms. The social situation of the single-parents' families was characterized by difficult economic conditions. These families mainly belonged to lower social classes. The results underline the necessity not only to consider medical (therapeutic and rehabilitating) measures but also soci-pedagogical or socio-therapeutic support.