What phase is exhibited by a child who has been in the hospital for a few days and is crying, screaming, and refusing attention?

The phase exhibited by a child who has been in the hospital for a few days, crying, screaming, and refusing attention, is the protest phase. This phase is characterized by intense emotional responses from the child who feels abandoned and frightened due to the separation from their caregivers and familiar environment.

During the protest phase, children may demonstrate behaviors such as crying, calling out for their parents, and displaying a high level of distress. This reaction is a normal part of the response to separation anxiety and reflects the child's struggle to cope with the hospital environment and the disruption of their routines. This phase typically occurs immediately following the separation and can last until the child starts to adapt to their new surroundings or until a soothing presence is introduced. Understanding this phase is important for caregivers and health professionals, as it can guide them in providing appropriate support to the child during their hospitalization.