During a well child check at the ambulatory clinic, the mother of a 10-year-old boy reports concerns about her son's frequent discussions about death and dying. Based upon knowledge of this age group the nurse understands that:
a) discussing death and dying may hint at a psychological disorder.
b) at this age, children are not afraid of death.
c) preoccupation with death and dying is common in the school-aged child.
d) consistent thoughts of death and dying at this age leads to the later development of depression.
Answer: preoccupation with death and dying is common in the school-aged child.