Correct Answer: adjustment disorder.
adjustment disorder is a psychological response to an identifiable stressor or group of stressors that causes significant emotional or behavioral symptoms. it is characterized by the development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to a stressful event or situation. these symptoms occur within three months of the stressor's onset and generally resolve within six months after the stressor or its consequences have ceased.
in children, such stressors might include changing schools, the birth of a sibling, parents' divorce, or other disruptions to their normal social environment or support systems. when a child is diagnosed with an adjustment disorder, it means they are experiencing more distress than would typically be expected in response to the identified stressor, or they are having significant impairment in social, occupational, or educational functioning.
symptoms of adjustment disorders can vary but often include both emotional and behavioral signs. emotional symptoms might include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, lack of enjoyment, anxiety, and nervousness. behavioral symptoms may include acting out, poor performance in school, fighting, or avoiding family and friends. these symptoms are akin to, but usually less severe than, those associated with major depression or anxiety disorders.
it is crucial to distinguish adjustment disorder from other mental health disorders. unlike major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder, which might have no identifiable cause or be more persistent, adjustment disorder is directly linked to a specific cause and is generally temporary. furthermore, once the child has adapted to the new situation or learned to cope with the stressor, the symptoms of an adjustment disorder typically resolve.
treatment for adjustment disorder focuses on helping the child cope with the stressor. this might include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (cbt), which can help the child develop tools to adjust more effectively. family therapy may also be recommended to support the child through changes in the family dynamics. in some cases, if the symptoms are severe, short-term pharmacological intervention might be considered under careful medical supervision.
overall, the prognosis for adjustment disorder is good, especially with timely and appropriate intervention. recognizing the symptoms early and providing supportive interventions can help the child regain their emotional equilibrium and return to their typical level of functioning.
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