The effects of hospitalization and surgery on children: A critical review

This article critically evaluates past research on children's psychological responses to the experience of hospitalization and surgery. Many methodological problems are revealed but in spite of these, several conclusions can be drawn. First, at least 20% of children admitted into a hospital experience some degree of behavioral and/or emotional distrubance, but this usually subsides within the first 6 months after discharge. Second, prolonged or repeated hospitalization increases the chances of later problems. Third, younger children, especially those between the ages of 6 months and 4 years, tend to show more adverse reactions to hospitalization than older children. Fourth, increased risk of problem behaviors is associated with coming from a psychosocially disadvantaged family. Recommendations are made for future research.