Emotional disturbance of childhood refers to a cluster of symptoms that are contributing to emotional and behavioral problems, which interfere with the child’s ability to function. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors are often present. These children significantly struggle to regulate their emotions and control their behaviors. They are prone to frustration and often exhibit frequent meltdowns, emotional outbursts, and temper tantrums when denied their way. Although temper tantrums are very common among children, those with emotional disturbances significantly struggle to self-calm. Temper tantrums are very frequent, usually daily, and their outbursts may carry on excessively. Mood lability (e.g., mood swings) is common as well. Additionally, aggression, violence, self-harming, and threatening statements may be present as well, but not necessarily.
Emotional disturbances usually are attributed to brain development, but often improve with age and intervention. Family-based intervention works best. Medication may also be useful, though should always be used in conjunction with behavioral intervention.