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Prepubertal depression: Diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas

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Abstract

Childhood depression is underrecognized. Longitudinal studies have found that depression is a chronic and relapsing disorder in children aged 6 years and older. Now there is evidence that a depressive syndrome can occur in preschool children. De.ning depressive syndromes in preschool and elementary-school children has been a challenge. Children should be seen in the context of their social environment (ie, family and peer group) and their larger physical and cultural surroundings. A developmental perspective is important in diagnosing psychopathology in children. Evaluation should include a complete medical assessment to rule out underlying medical causes. A structured clinical interview and rating scales are helpful in determining whether a child or adolescent is depressed. Evidence-based treatment guidelines are limited. The diagnosis of depression in young children remains an active area of debate and study. Clearly more research is needed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3440 Market Street, Suite 200, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Elizabeth B. Weller MD

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  1. Roomana M. Sheikh MD
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  2. Elizabeth B. Weller MD
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  3. Ronald A. Weller MD
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Correspondence to Elizabeth B. Weller MD.

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Sheikh, R.M., Weller, E.B. & Weller, R.A. Prepubertal depression: Diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Curr Psychiatry Rep 8, 121–126 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-006-0009-z

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