Characteristics of the dependent

Question 1

Age?

Answer 1

• The maturity of the child will determine their needs
• Young children = safety and security, food and clothing
• Babies are reliant on their parents to provide these needs, teenagers are more independent
• Providing love and affection so that the child can pass this on

Question 2

Skills and capabilities?

Answer 2

• Influence carer or parents role
  Examples:
• A teenager meeting their needs through physical activity and nutritious food
• Working independently on their homework
• Parents setting curfews for safety and security

Question 3

Special needs?

Answer 3

• Illness, disability or allergies and gifted children
• Chronically ill children may need the hospital to address their needs rather than their parents
• Gifted children may meet their needs through their own endeavours that the parent may not understand