an act, instance, or occasion of slumping:The economy is in a prolonged slump. a period during which a person performs ineffectively:The team is in a slump after having lost its last six games.
Common Causes of Childhood Stress. The source of anxiety and stress in children can be something external, such as a problem at school, changes in the family, or a conflict with a friend. Anxious feelings can also be caused by a child's internal feelings and pressures, such as wanting to do well in school or fit in with peers.
Childhood stress can be present in any setting that requires the child to adapt or change. Stress may be caused by positive changes, such as starting a new activity, but it is most commonly linked with negative changes such as illness or death in the family.