236 MENTAL HYGIENE 



sponse will follow. These normal responses help to develop 

 proper attitudes. If one once recognizes that bad temper is 

 futile, that it is wasteful of emotion, and that it interferes with sane 

 reasoning, he will overcome it. It is particularly valuable to think 

 things through to a conclusion and to keep a sense of humor. These 

 are invaluable in overcoming nervous difficulties and building up 

 an optimistic view of life. 



Introspections are usually to be avoided in adolescence. When 

 one thinks about himself, it is from so emotional and prejudiced a 

 viewpoint that a fair judgment cannot be made. Day dreams 

 may be conducive to success. They may make one ambitious and 

 spur him on, if he dreams of achievements. But, if imaginary 

 slights are exaggerated and dwelt upon, such thinking leads to 

 mental disturbances. Social intercourse with other children, par- 

 ticularly in free play, is especially desirable in order to help a 

 child adjust himself in the social group in which he must live. 



A feeling of inferiority is a symptom common to a disturbed 

 nervous system. When children are laughed at, or spurned, or too 

 severely criticized, they lose their self-confidence and their self- 

 respect. This feeling of inferiority inhibits effort and causes dis- 

 satisfaction, unhappiness, and possibly failure. Responsibilities 

 should be given such children. Confidence, respect, and whole- 

 some consideration should be shown their efforts, so that they will 

 make proper efforts toward success. Children should be able to 

 take effective action when necessary. 



Self-pity and lack of confidence are also undesirable. They may 

 come from trying to accomplish things that are too difficult or are 

 beyond the mental ability. Talking over problems with a person 

 whose judgment is valuable and worthwhile, often helps to direct 

 a person's activities along the proper lines. It reduces strain and 

 worry and prevents the repression of thought. 



Effects of Tobacco and Alcohol on the Nervous System. There 

 is a distinction to be made between the effects of tobacco upon 



