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Disorders Diagnosed in Childhood

Mental Retardation - Sub average general intellectual functioning. Classified as Mild, Moderate, Severe and Profound.

Note: Mental Retardation is NOT diagnosed on Axis I as might be expected but on Axis II.

Motor Skills Disorder - Impairment in coordinating movement like hand-eye inadequately as compared with peer development(Developmental Coordination Disorder)

Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Severe impairments in various areas, including language, behavior, and other developmentally appropriate areas; several sub types.

Autistic Disorder - impaired interactions and communication, restrictive or repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. 75% are mentally retarded.

  • Rett's Disorder
  • Asperger's Disorder
  • Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Attention Deficit & Disruptive Disorders

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity -- Disorders-According to the DSM IV it is not possible to diagnose this disorder for adults. However there is a controversy in the field about this issue. 2 subtypes: ADD and ADHD.

Conduct Disorder - Displays aggressive behavior including destruction of property, significant deceit or theft, serious violation of rules (i.e., truancy, breaking curfews, and running away)

Oppositional Defiant Disorder - many of the same behaviors as a Conduct Disorder, but with a negativistic defiance. This may be considered the Antisocial Personality Disorder of childhood

Tic Disorders - Involuntary movement and/or repetitive vocal production; several sub types.

Learning Disorder - Achievements that are below expected levels for a normally developed child (you may expect to encounter language delays, motor difficulties, over activity, and low self-esteem)

Separation Anxiety Disorder - Significant, unrealistic fear and difficulty separating from a parent that is not age appropriate lasting for at least four weeks