Question
A child has already entered elementary school, but their academic performance continues to be poor. Suggestions have been made to check their intelligence. Why do some children develop mentally later?
Answer
Part of the reason for the delayed mental development in some children may stem from genetic factors, such as congenital chromosomal abnormalities. During pregnancy, if the mother experiences emotional disturbances, radiation stimulation, or drug damage among other unexpected incidents, these can also cause harm and impact on the child’s mental development. Inconsistent factors in the family environment, such as disharmony in parent-child relationships, single-parent families, or left-behind children, can also affect these children’s educational level and, consequently, their mental development.