The new morbidity revisited: A renewed commitment to the psychosocial aspects of pediatric care

In 1993, the American Academy of Pediatrics adopted the policy statement "T he Pediatrician and the `New Morbidity.'" Since then, social difficulties, behavioral problems, and developmental difficulties have become a main part of the scope of pediatric practice, and recognition of the importance of t hese areas has increased. This statement reaffirms the Academy's commitment to prevention, early detection, and management of behavioral, developmenta l, and social problems as a focus in pediatric practice.