Medicine

German New Medicine 101: Helping Children to Resolve Emotional Conflicts [Part 4]

Alissa Avocado

Mar 10, 2024 • 13 min read

In the fascinating realm of German New Medicine (GNM), the profound connection between the mind and body takes center stage, offering a revolutionary perspective on health and disease. GNM, founded by Dr. Ryke Geerd Hamer, posits that diseases, including those commonly faced by children, are the result of biological conflicts triggered by emotional experiences. This approach provides a deeper understanding of how conflicts related to performance, self-esteem, identity, and belonging influence a child's health. By exploring these conflicts and their manifestations through GNM's lens, this post aims to shed light on the complex interplay between emotional well-being and physical symptoms. With insights into GNM principles, we'll explore strategies for resolving these conflicts, thereby supporting children in their journey towards growth and healing.

Exploring the GNM Perspective on Childhood Diseases

In German New Medicine (GNM), the emphasis is on understanding the emotional conflicts that lead to physical manifestations in the form of diseases, especially in children. Here's an expanded view of the conflicts and feelings, along with typical diseases:

1) Fear or Fright Conflicts

man standing on glass platform on top of building looking down on ground at daytime

Introduction to the Conflict:
Fear or fright conflicts are triggered by sudden, unexpected scares or threats. In children, these conflicts are often provoked by situations where they feel unprotected or vulnerable, such as encountering a hostile animal, witnessing a violent act, or experiencing a sudden loud noise. The essence of this conflict revolves around a deep-seated fear for one's safety or well-being, which can be particularly intense in new or unfamiliar environments like a school or kindergarten.

How Children Feel During the Conflict:
During a fear or fright conflict, children may experience heightened anxiety, nervousness, and a pervasive sense of insecurity. They might become clingy, seek constant reassurance, or exhibit signs of panic, such as rapid breathing, trembling, or crying without an apparent reason. This state reflects their internal struggle to process the scare and regain a sense of safety.

Manifestations in Kindergarten and School:
In educational settings, fear or fright conflicts can arise from numerous sources. Bullying, sudden reprimands from authority figures, unexpected loud sounds during activities, or even the fear of being separated from a parent can trigger such conflicts. The unfamiliar and often unpredictable environment of kindergarten and school, filled with new faces and routines, provides a fertile ground for these conflicts to occur.

Typical Diseases and Conditions Resulting from the Conflict:
The physiological response to fear or fright conflicts often involves the kidneys and the adrenal glands, leading to conditions such as night-time bedwetting (enuresis) or sudden drops in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or fainting. Additionally, the stress response associated with these conflicts can exacerbate or trigger asthma attacks, where the fear of not being able to breathe mirrors the child's internal state of panic.

Resolving the Conflict:
Resolution requires creating a secure and predictable environment where the child feels safe and supported. Addressing the source of fear, whether through open discussions, counseling, or gradually desensitizing the child to the fear source, can help. In schools, fostering a nurturing atmosphere, where children know they have trusted adults they can turn to, significantly mitigates the impact of these conflicts. Moreover, parents playing an active role in preparing their children for school-related challenges, by discussing potential scary situations and strategizing responses, can equip children with the tools to better handle fear or fright conflicts.

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Parents can transmit unresolved conflicts to their children.

2) Separation Conflicts

man in white long sleeve shirt driving car

Introduction to the Conflict:
Separation conflicts arise when a child experiences a sudden loss of physical contact or emotional connection with a loved one, leading to feelings of abandonment or isolation. This type of conflict is especially prevalent in young children who are entering kindergarten or school for the first time, as they face separation from their primary caregivers.

How Children Feel During the Conflict:
Children undergoing separation conflicts may exhibit behaviors signaling distress, such as excessive clinginess, crying when it's time to part, or showing reluctance to engage in activities away from their parents. They might also express a longing for the person they miss through verbal cues or by becoming withdrawn and introspective.

Manifestations in Kindergarten and School:
In the educational setting, separation conflicts can manifest as social withdrawal, reluctance to participate in group activities, or somatic symptoms like stomach aches or headaches, which serve as expressions of the child's inner turmoil. These symptoms often coincide with school days and improve during weekends or holidays when the child is with their family.

Typical Diseases and Conditions Resulting from the Conflict:
The physiological response to separation conflicts is often seen in the skin and organs that symbolize contact or closeness, such as eczema or dermatitis, representing the child's longing for touch. Additionally, conditions like separation anxiety disorder can develop, marked by extreme distress when away from familiar figures.

Resolving the Conflict:
Resolution strategies focus on gradually building the child's sense of security and independence. Establishing consistent routines, offering reassurance about the parent's return, and creating positive associations with the school or kindergarten environment are crucial steps. Encouragement, alongside gentle exposure to short periods of separation, can foster resilience and adaptability.

3) Territorial Conflicts

Introduction to the Conflict:
Territorial conflicts are triggered by disputes or intrusions into what the child perceives as their personal space or domain. This could stem from conflicts with peers over belongings or play areas, or feeling dominated by authoritative figures, leading to feelings of helplessness or violation.

How Children Feel During the Conflict:
Children experiencing territorial conflicts may become aggressive, defensive, or territorial over their possessions or space. Alternatively, they might become subdued, showing signs of submission or defeat, as they navigate the balance between asserting themselves and acquiescing to authority.

Manifestations in Kindergarten and School:
Such conflicts are common in settings where sharing and cooperation are required, yet personal boundaries are still being learned. Territorial disputes may lead to confrontations with peers or resistance to following rules imposed by teachers, seen as territorial intruders.

Typical Diseases and Conditions Resulting from the Conflict:
Physiological manifestations include urinary and digestive system issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or urinary tract infections (UTIs), reflecting the body's response to the perceived invasion of territory. Behavioral disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), may also arise, characterized by persistent patterns of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures.

Resolving the Conflict:
Effective resolution involves fostering a sense of personal autonomy and respect for boundaries, both the child's and others'. Teaching conflict resolution skills, encouraging open communication about feelings and needs, and establishing clear, consistent rules can help mitigate territorial conflicts. Emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding in communal living and learning spaces is key.

These detailed conflict explanations aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how specific GNM principles apply to common childhood experiences, especially in the context of transitioning to and participating in group settings like kindergarten and school.

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During Kindergarten and School time there are lots of "firsts" which lead to emotional conflicts resulting rather than because of contagion.

4) Performance and Self-Esteem Conflicts

Introduction to the Conflict:
Performance and self-esteem conflicts in children are deeply intertwined with their experiences of success and failure, particularly in environments where they are evaluated, such as school, sports, and social settings. These conflicts are rooted in the child's perception of their abilities and worth, which are influenced by expectations—both their own and those of parents, teachers, and peers. The fear of not living up to these expectations can create a profound internal struggle, impacting a child's self-confidence and self-image.

How Children Feel During the Conflict:
Children facing performance and self-esteem conflicts may experience a wide range of emotions, including anxiety, frustration, and disappointment. They might fear embarrassment or criticism for not performing well, leading to avoidance of challenges or opportunities where they risk failure. This fear can become a significant source of stress, affecting their willingness to try new things, participate in class, or engage in social activities. In their eyes, every task or interaction becomes a potential threat to their self-esteem, making them hyper-vigilant about how they are perceived by others.

Manifestations in Kindergarten and School:
In the school environment, these conflicts can manifest through behaviors such as reluctance to answer questions in class, perfectionism in assignments, withdrawal from group activities, or conversely, acting out to divert attention from their perceived inadequacies. Children might also compare themselves unfavorably to peers, focusing on their shortcomings rather than their strengths. The pressure to perform can lead to physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches, which serve as a means to avoid facing the stressful situation.

Typical Diseases and Conditions Resulting from the Conflict:
The psychological strain of performance and self-esteem conflicts can manifest in various physical and emotional conditions, including:

Muscle or Joint Pain: These symptoms can symbolize the burden of perceived expectations, mirroring the emotional weight of carrying these pressures.
Tics or Stuttering: Reflecting the conflict between the desire to express oneself freely and the fear of judgment, these involuntary movements or speech disruptions can emerge under stress.
Alopecia (Hair Loss): Stress-induced hair loss may represent fears around self-image and societal judgments, embodying the internalized pressure to meet external standards of appearance or performance.

Resolving the Conflict:
Effective resolution strategies for performance and self-esteem conflicts involve creating a supportive and nurturing environment that emphasizes growth, effort, and personal bests over comparative achievement and perfection. Encouraging children to set realistic goals, celebrating their progress, and teaching them coping skills for dealing with failure and criticism can help mitigate these conflicts. Providing unconditional love and assurance that their worth is not contingent on their achievements is crucial for fostering a healthy self-esteem and resilience in the face of challenges.Identity and Belonging Conflicts

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Normalize apologizing to your child when you were not fair.

5) Identity and Belonging Conflict

Introduction to the Conflict:
Identity and belonging conflicts are deeply rooted in a child's struggle to find their place within social groups, be it family, peers, or the broader societal context. These conflicts often arise during periods of transition or change, such as starting school, moving to a new area, or navigating the complexities of growing up. At the heart of these conflicts is the fundamental human need for acceptance and the fear of rejection or exclusion.

How Children Feel During the Conflict:
Children grappling with these issues might feel confused about their identity, questioning where they fit in and what defines them. They may oscillate between trying to conform to perceived group norms and asserting their individuality. This internal tug-of-war can lead to feelings of alienation, loneliness, and insecurity, as children worry about being ostracized for being different or not good enough to belong.

Manifestations in Kindergarten and School:
In educational settings, these conflicts can surface through social isolation, difficulty forming or maintaining friendships, or reluctance to participate in group activities. Children might mimic others' behaviors or suppress their own interests to blend in, leading to a loss of self-expression. Conversely, some children might adopt a disruptive demeanor to attract attention and assert their presence.

Typical Diseases and Conditions Resulting from the Conflict:
The stress associated with identity and belonging conflicts can manifest in various physical and psychological conditions, including:

Eating Disorders: Representing an attempt to gain control over one's body in a bid for acceptance or to fit an idealized image.
Social Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by extreme fear of social situations, worrying excessively about being judged or embarrassed.
Depression: Can develop from persistent feelings of not belonging, loneliness, and low self-worth, leading to withdrawal and disinterest in activities once enjoyed.

Resolving the Conflict:
Addressing identity and belonging conflicts involves fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where differences are celebrated and every child feels valued for who they are. Encouraging open dialogue about feelings and experiences, promoting empathy and understanding among peers, and providing role models or mentorship opportunities can help children navigate these challenges. Activities that allow self-expression and exploration of personal interests can also reinforce a sense of individuality and belonging.

By understanding and addressing the underlying causes of performance and self-esteem conflicts, as well as identity and belonging conflicts, caregivers and educators can support children in developing a healthy sense of self and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

In GNM, understanding these conflicts and the feelings they evoke in children provides a pathway to addressing the root causes of their physical symptoms. Recognizing the emotional underpinnings of diseases can guide caregivers in supporting children through these challenges, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being in overall health.

Communicating with Children About Their Conflicts

Communicating with children about their conflicts requires empathy, understanding, and a thoughtful approach that respects their individuality. Here are several pieces of compelling advice derived from the script to guide parents and caregivers in these conversations:

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You can communicate with your children in their sleep in order to prepare them for upcoming events or explain better what happened.

Recognize Children as Individuals: Before diving into conflict discussions, acknowledge your child's individuality. Understand that their experiences, feelings, and perspectives are unique and deserve respect. This foundational acknowledgment fosters a supportive environment for discussing conflicts.
Establish Open Communication: Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Let them know that their opinions are valued and that it's okay to express themselves openly and honestly.
Use Empathetic Listening: When your child discusses their conflicts, listen with empathy. Avoid immediate judgment or offering solutions. Instead, validate their feelings and show that you understand their perspective. This validation can be comforting and can open the door to deeper communication.
Guide, Don’t Dictate: Offer guidance rather than dictating what they should feel or do. Help them explore different viewpoints and possible solutions to their conflict, but allow them the freedom to make their own decisions. This empowers children to develop problem-solving skills and independence.
Model Effective Conflict Resolution: Demonstrate healthy conflict resolution in your own behavior. Children learn by example, so show them how to handle disagreements with calmness, empathy, and respect. Discuss your thought process and how you consider others' perspectives to resolve conflicts.
Encourage Perspective-Taking: Teach your child to consider the perspectives of others involved in the conflict. This can help them understand the situation more fully and develop empathy, which is crucial for resolving disputes amicably.
Discuss the Importance of Flexibility in Perception: Explain how different perceptions can lead to conflicts and how being flexible in understanding others' viewpoints can help resolve them. Encourage them to think about situations from various angles to find common ground.
Normalize Conflict as Part of Learning: Help your child understand that conflicts are a normal part of life and relationships. They offer opportunities for learning and growth. Emphasize that it's not the presence of conflict that's critical but how it's handled.
Foster a Problem-Solving Mindset: Encourage your child to view conflicts as problems to be solved rather than insurmountable obstacles. Teach them to break down conflicts into manageable parts and to think creatively about solutions.
Provide Support Without Taking Over: Offer your support and assistance in resolving conflicts, but resist the urge to take over and solve the problem for them. Encourage independence while being available to guide and advise when asked.
Teach the Value of Apology and Forgiveness: Highlight the importance of apologizing when wrong and forgiving others to move past conflicts. Discuss the strength in admitting mistakes and the freedom that forgiveness can bring.

By incorporating these strategies into your communication, you can help your child navigate their conflicts more effectively, fostering resilience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout life.

Step-by-Step Guide of How to Resolve your Children's Conflicts

Here's a step-by-step guide based on Kathryn Brunkenhoefer's testimonial. Her daughter had frequent dry coughs at night:

Identify the Symptom: Recognize recurring symptoms in your child, such as dry coughs, especially if they occur more frequently at night.
Understand the Context: Consider possible stressors or conflicts that could be triggering the symptom. For example, if your child is fearful of a particular situation or object, like a stray dog, it could contribute to their symptoms.
Apply GNM Principles: Understand how emotional conflicts can manifest as physical symptoms. In the case of coughing, it might be linked to a "scare-fright" conflict, where the child feels threatened or frightened.
Resolve the Conflict: Address the root cause of the conflict by helping your child cope with their fear in a supportive and understanding manner. Provide strategies to manage the fear and create a safe environment for them.
Provide Emotional Support: Offer reassurance and emotional support to your child. Apologize if your past actions may have contributed to their fear or discomfort, and emphasize that it's okay to experience and express their emotions.
Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on your child's response to the resolution of the conflict. Offer ongoing support and guidance as needed to ensure they feel safe and supported.
Apply GNM in Future Situations: Use the principles of German New Medicine to address similar situations in the future. Help your child overcome fear-related symptoms promptly by identifying and resolving underlying conflicts.
Reflect and Learn: Recognize the importance of identifying and addressing emotional conflicts in your child's health and well-being. Reflect on your own behavior and its impact on your child, and strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment for them to thrive in.By following these steps, you can approach similar situations using the principles of German New Medicine.

Conclusion

From the perspective of GNM, it becomes evident that our educational system plays a significant role in shaping the emotional landscape of our children. The stressors, pressures, and conflicts encountered within the educational environment can contribute to the development of symptoms and illnesses in children. These may include fears related to academic performance, social interactions, bullying, or the overall pressure to succeed.

As parents and educators, it's essential to recognize the impact of these educational stressors on children's health and well-being. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, both at home and in school, we can help children navigate and resolve conflicts effectively, thus promoting their emotional and physical health.

Moreover, integrating GNM principles into our approach to education can offer a holistic perspective on children's health and well-being. By addressing the emotional conflicts underlying symptoms and illnesses, we can support children in their overall development and create a more compassionate and understanding educational environment.