What is the impact on Scout and Jem when Atticus takes on Tom Robinson's case? How do they cope?

Scout and Jem are subjected to insults and derogatory comments from their neighbors, pupils, and family members because their father, Atticus, is defending Tom Robinson. Atticus encourages his children to maintain control of their anger and to be tolerant of their neighbors whenever they are insulted. Scout tries her best to control her temper, and thinks of Atticus' advice when Cecil Jacobs, her pupil, tells her that his family thinks Atticus is a disgrace. However, Scout ends up fighting her cousin, Francis, for calling her father a "nigger-lover," and telling her that Atticus is ruining the family. Jem, who is typically mild-mannered, loses his temper after their prejudiced neighbor, Mrs. Dubose, says Atticus is no better than the niggers he works for. Jem and Scout also deal with their Aunt Alexandra hassling their father, which creates tension throughout the household. The children worry about their father's safety because they understand that the citizens of Maycomb resent Atticus for defending Tom. They narrowly avoid a dangerous situation after they follow Atticus to Maycomb's jailhouse, and continue to worry about what Bob Ewell will do to Atticus following the trial.

Despite the negative attention that Atticus' choice to defend Tom brings his children, Jem and Scout receive support from their loving father, Miss Maudie, Calpurnia, and their friend, Dill. Miss Maudie is a constant source of encouragement to Jem and Scout, and reminds them that Atticus is a brave, morally upright man. Scout and Jem continually ask their father questions regarding Tom's case and their neighbors' reactions to what Atticus is doing. Atticus helps the children cope by teaching them the errors in their prejudiced neighbors' opinions. Atticus also encourages his children to do the right thing, and to be respectful no matter what. Dill helps take Jem and Scout's minds off the case, and entertains them with his various stories and games. The love and support that Jem and Scout receive from their friends and family help them cope while Atticus defends Tom Robinson in a prejudiced town.