Epilepsy is a seizure disorder that affects mental and physical functions. People who have two or more unprovoked seizures are considered epileptic. The Epilepsy Foundation states that approximately 300,000 American children under the age of 14 have epilepsy. For some children, epilepsy is a temporary problem that is controlled with medication and outgrown in a few years, while for others it may continue to affect daily functioning well into adulthood. Epileptic children may display a number of behavioral characteristics.
Blackouts
A common behavioral characteristic of childhood epilepsy is blackouts, according to the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities. Epileptic children may blackout or lose consciousness when an electrical surge travels through part or all of their brain. During a blackout, an epileptic child may completely lose consciousness or appear to be dazed, confused or daydreaming. The child may not remember the blackout or his behavior during the blackout.
Prolonged Staring, Unresponsiveness and Odd Behavior
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities states that children with epilepsy may exhibit periods of unresponsiveness, prolonged staring and odd behavior during a seizure. Epileptic children may become emotionless or stare at a person or object for a prolonged amount of time as the seizure disrupts their brain function. Some children may also experience extreme fatigue, hear odd sounds, have distorted perceptions or demonstrate unexplained fearful behavior such as hiding or cowering immediately following an epileptic seizure.
Jerky and Repetitive Movements
A common characteristic of childhood epilepsy is jerky and repetitive movements, according to Parenthood.com. During a seizure, epileptic children may involuntarily move their arms and legs, repeatedly nod their head, button and unbutton their shirt, blink their eyes, stumble and/or move in an unnatural way. Children may also appear clumsy or uncoordinated at times.
Disruptive Behavior
Epileptic children may act out or misbehave, according to Epilepsy.com. Epileptic children who experience early onset partial seizures may exhibit hyperactivity, attention or temper problems, while children who experience left-side brain seizures may demonstrate anxiety and frustration. These children may become agitated due to their inability to understand or express ideas. Epileptic children who have right-side brain seizures may display social difficulties, problems understanding cues and impulsivity, while children who have seizures in the front of the brain may exhibit disorganization and lack of regard for consequences.
