Child psychiatry Flashcards
What are common social signs of autism?
Lack of eye contact Delay in smiling Avoiding physical contact Unable to read non verbal cues Not desiring to share attention (not playing with others) Difficulty establishing friendships
What are common communication signs of autism?
Lack of eye contact Repetitive use of words or phrases Delay or absence in language Regression of language Difficulty with imagination
What are some behavioural signs of autism?
Greater interest in objects, numbers or patterns
Repetitive movements that are comforting (rocking)
Repetitive behaviours
Intense interests
Fixed routines
Anxiety and distress outwit their normal routine
Extremely restrictive food preferences
When does autism become observable?
Usually before age 3.
What is Aspergers?
Now just known as autism. Very intelligent but can’t read the emotion of others.
What are some complications of autism?
Leaning difficulties Disturbed sleep Poor eating habits Hyperactivity Anxiety and depression OCD school avoidance temper tantrums self harm suicidal behaviour Aggression
How likely is suicide in people with autism?
6x more likely than the general population.
What are causes of autism?
Strong genetic link
How common are seizures in autism?
25% of people with autism also have seizures
What is a characteristic sign of autism?
If you point to an object, the child will look at your finger rather than the object you’re pointing to.
How many people with autism go on to live alone independently?
Less than 10%
What is the male:female ratio?
3:1
What is autism?
It refers to anyone with a deficit in communication, social interaction and flexible behaviour.
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
A condition where children age <12yrs have hyperactive behaviour and problems paying attention that have a significant impact on the child.
To be classed as ADHD, where must the child be impacted?
In more than one place, EG just as impacted at home as they are at School. Otherwise its more likely to be an environmental problem.
What are the signs of ADHD?
Very short attention span Quickly moving from one activity to another Not persisting in challenging tasks Impulsive behaviours Disruptive behaviours Rule breaking Fidgeting
What is the pathophysiology behind ADHD?
There is reduced activity in the frontal lobe causing a decrease in executive function.
How many people with ADHD struggle with attention and behaviour as an adult?
50%
What is the treatment for ADHD?
Behavioural techniques
Central nervous system stimulating drugs (to stimulate the frontal lobe): Methylphenidate, dexamphetamine, atemoxatine
How does ADHD impact on a Childs grades?
It often impacts the Childs performance at school but DOES NOT affect intelligence.
What is conduct disorder?
A diagnosis given to <18yrs who show behaviour and attitudes that continuously disrespect and violate the rights of other people.
What are signs of conduct disorder?
Physical aggression
Destructive behaviour
Stealing
Which gender is conduct disorder more common in?
Males
What is the prognosis for conduct disorder?
Half develop antisocial personality disorder
Half develop substance misuse
40% become re-offending juvenile delinquents
