ADVANCES IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF CHILDREN WITH SERIOUS MENTAL-ILLNESS

As a nation, we are becoming aware that a significant number of childr en develop severe neuropsychiatric disorders. Unfortunately, knowledge of DSM-IV criteria does not always help the child and family social w orker identify children with these disorders. Early onset schizophreni a, bipolar disorders, and severe depression can cause child behaviors that differ markedly from symptoms manifested by adults with serious m ental illness. This article provides specific information If or screen ing and treating children who develop long-term neuropsychiatric disor ders.