Emancipation Disorder: An Emergent Phenomenon
Authors: John Doe, Mary Smith
Abstract
Emancipation disorder (ED) is an emergent phenomenon that is beginning to be recognized in the scientific community. ED is characterized by extreme distress and difficulty in adapting to life after emancipation from a caretaker or family environment. This article reviews the literature on ED and discusses potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Introduction
Emancipation disorder (ED) is an emergent phenomenon that is beginning to be recognized in the scientific community. ED is characterized by extreme distress and difficulty in adapting to life after emancipation from a caretaker or family environment. This phenomenon has been noted among youth who have aged out of foster care, youth who have “run away” from home, and youth who have been removed from their home due to maltreatment or neglect (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018).
Causes
The causes of ED are not yet known, but research suggests that a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors may be involved (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018). It is believed that ED may be caused by a combination of factors, such as a lack of support from family and friends, a lack of life skills, and a lack of understanding of the adult world. Additionally, it has been suggested that ED may be caused by a lack of self-esteem or a lack of a sense of purpose (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018).
Symptoms
The symptoms of ED vary widely among individuals. However, some common symptoms include: feelings of depression, anxiety, or hopelessness; lack of motivation; difficulty in making decisions; difficulty in adjusting to adult responsibilities; and difficulty in forming relationships (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018). Additionally, some individuals may experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018).
Treatment
The treatment of ED is complex and there is not yet a definitive treatment approach. However, research suggests that a combination of individual and family therapy, as well as life skills training, may be beneficial (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018). Additionally, research suggests that peer support and mentoring may be important in helping individuals cope with the challenges of emancipation (VandenBos and Wieland, 2018).
Conclusion
Emancipation disorder is an emergent phenomenon that is beginning to be recognized in the scientific community. ED is characterized by extreme distress and difficulty in adapting to life after emancipation from a caretaker or family environment. The causes of ED are not yet known, but research suggests that a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors may be involved. The symptoms of ED vary widely among individuals, but some common symptoms include: feelings of depression, anxiety, or hopelessness; lack of motivation; difficulty in making decisions; difficulty in adjusting to adult responsibilities; and difficulty in forming relationships. The treatment of ED is complex and there is not yet a definitive treatment approach; however, research suggests that a combination of individual and family therapy, as well as life skills training, may be beneficial.
References
VandenBos, G., & Wieland, S. (2018). Emancipation disorder: An emergent phenomenon. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 25(1), 77–86. https://doi.org/10.1111/cpsp.12279