ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES OF HUNGER AND FOOD INSECURITY FOR CHILDREN
Several studies indicate that children from food insufficient households do not perform as well on certain academic achievement tests as do children from food-sufficient households. Furthermore, there is evidence that elementary school-aged children from food-insufficient families are more likely to have repeated a grade in school, and have higher rates of tardiness and absences from school, which in turn may affect their overall academic performance.
Health
- Poorer overall health status and compromised ability to resist illness
- Elevated occurrence of health problems such as stomachaches, headaches, colds, ear infections, and fatigue
- Greater incidence of hospitalizations
Psychosocial and Behavioral
- Higher levels of aggression, hyperactivity, and anxiety as well as passivity
- Difficulty getting along with other children
- Increased need for mental health services
Learning and Academic
- Impaired cognitive functioning and diminished capacity to learn
- Lower test scores and poorer overall school achievement
- Repeating a grade in school
- Increased school absences, tardiness, and school suspension
