Adjustment Disorder
A group of emotional symptoms, such as stress, sadness or hopelessness, and even physical symptoms that arise after a child experiences a stressful life event. The child’s strong reaction may seem out of proportion to the event itself because he or she is struggling to cope with the situation.
As many as 70% of children in psychiatric settings may be diagnosed with an adjustment disorder.
Children’s exhibiting anxiety disorder typically either externalize or internalize their response. Externalizing behaviors are directed outward toward others, such as anger, fighting, tantrums, and bullying. Internalizing behaviors are directed inward into the child. They include isolation and withdrawal, lack of self-esteem, anxiety, worry, and fear.