On November 20, 2025, Psychologist Belkıs Ertürk conducted the “Awareness Seminar on Children’s Adjustment and Behavioral Issues” at Şehit Polis Mustafa Erdoğan Secondary School. Parents and teachers attended the seminar, which focused on factors affecting children’s adjustment and practical approaches to common behavioral problems.
Ertürk highlighted the important role of the nervous system in children’s ability to adapt to their social environment. She explained that behaviors emerge as responses to internal and external stimuli and emphasized that distinguishing between behaviors that facilitate or hinder adjustment is crucial for understanding problems.
The seminar addressed frequently observed behavioral issues, including school refusal, oppositional behavior, stubbornness, aggression, stealing, lying, sleep problems, thumb sucking, nail biting, psychological stuttering, addiction, and particularly screen addiction. Ertürk noted that these behaviors should be evaluated considering the child’s age, frequency, consequences, and underlying causes.
The influence of parenting attitudes on children’s behavior was also discussed. Ertürk explained that overprotection, inconsistent discipline, lack of attention, or rigid approaches can exacerbate problems. She stressed the importance of acknowledging issues, avoiding anger-driven responses, and meeting children’s needs in a timely manner.
The seminar was conducted interactively, with participants asking questions and Ertürk responding with practical examples and suggestions. The question-and-answer session emerged as one of the most valuable parts of the program.
The seminar concluded successfully with high participant engagement. It was noted that the program effectively raised awareness of children’s behaviors and ways to support their healthy adjustment.
