Assessment of anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and depression in young children

Abstract

This chapter examines assessment of anxiety and related disorders in young children. It begins with description of risk factors for these disorders, including temperament characteristics and parent/family influences. Next, the chapter provides general background regarding anxiety and related problems in younger children. The author covers research literature and diagnostic and classification information for specific problems including fears/phobias, separation anxiety disorder/school refusal, selective mutism, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression. In addition, specific measures/instruments for these problems are discussed. The chapter concludes with a discussion of implications for practitioners, including a summary of assessment principles and links to interventions.