Childhood hunger: Effect on Behavioral And Emotional Function

It is well accepted that malnoursihed children are less responsive, less inquisitive, and show decreased exploratory behavior. Spesific nutrient deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia, can also result in persistent decreased attention and problem solving ability, less clear is the impact of periodic hunger or food insecurity on a child's behavior or functioning. Results showed that "hungry" and "at risk for hunger" children were twice as likely as "not hungry" to be considered functionally impaired. Teachers reported an increased incidence of hyperactivity, absenteeism, and tardines in the "hungry" and "at risk for hunger" children.