NCJ Number
126433
Journal
Social Casework Dated: (October 1989) Pages: 469-478
Date Published
1989
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article discusses issues of definitions of problem behavior in children in reference to the approaches to definitions of behavior disorders.
Abstract
It summarizes absolutist definitions and views of problem behavior as improper child and environment relationship or as an internal problem as purported in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM3R). The most widely used definitions in the DSM3R for the three subclasses of disruptive behavior disorders: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder are outlined. Three case examples are presented illustrating typical case diagnoses of disruptive behavior disorders. In addition research evidence supporting contradictory definitions is presented together with an argument for the use of the dimensional diagnosis approach. Lastly, implications for case evaluation are discussed addressing issues of medical, neurological, psychiatric, and allergy testing. Social workers need to be informed about the different diagnostic procedures and their limitations for providing input into evaluation and treatment decisions for children with behavior problems. 51 references