Lecture 9: Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Flashcards
(52 cards)
What age range is considered for childhood and adolescent disorders?
Less than 18 years old
Why should a child’s behavior be viewed in context?
To understand it within the framework of normal childhood development
What does developmental psychopathology focus on?
Determining what is abnormal during any stage of development
Is there a clear boundary between childhood, adolescence, and adulthood behavior patterns?
No, there is no sharp line of demarcation
Why are young children especially vulnerable to psychological problems?
They lack a complex and realistic view of themselves and their world.
How do young children perceive immediate threats?
As disproportionately more important.
Why do manageable problems seem overwhelming to young children?
Because of their lack of experience.
How does dependence affect children’s psychological vulnerability?
They are more dependent on others, increasing their vulnerability.
Who should be interviewed during a child’s assessment?
Child, parents, teachers, peers, significant others
What are key settings for observing a child?
Classroom, snack break, outdoor activities
What are the main domains assessed in psychological testing?
Intellectual, academic, executive functioning, memory, language abilities
What is the most common mental disorder in children and adolescents?
Anxiety disorders
Are anxiety disorders more common in boys or girls?
Girls
Name 3 common forms of anxiety disorders in youth.
Specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder
What is separation anxiety disorder?
Excessive anxiety about separation from major attachment figures and familiar environments.
What traits are common in children with separation anxiety disorder?
Low confidence, fear of new situations, and emotional immaturity.
What early trait is common in anxious children?
High sensitivity.
Name two parental behaviors that can increase childhood anxiety.
Being overprotective or anxious (modeling), and being cold or rejecting.
What is a major symptom of childhood depression?
Irritability.
What is a major risk factor for future depression symptoms?
Attentional bias (e.g., avoidance of threat cues).
What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?
A recurring pattern of defiant, hostile behavior toward authority figures lasting at least 6 months.
What are the subtypes of ODD?
Angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, vindictiveness.
What are risk factors for ODD?
Family discord, low socioeconomic status, and antisocial parental behavior.
What is Conduct Disorder (CD)?
A disorder marked by repeated violations of rules and the rights of others.