Childhood and Adolescent Psychology

Question 1

What are the features of fetal alcohol syndrome?

Answer 1

Growth retardation
- body, head, brain, eyes
Multiple Neurodevelopmental Effects
- Sensorimotor, cognitive, development, executive function, language

Question 2

What are the mental health disorders associated with being out of school?

Answer 2

Anxiety
Conduct Disorder
Autism
Depression
OCD

Question 3

What motivational factors affect school attendance?

Answer 3

Learning difficulties
Lack of friends and relationships
Bullying
Lack of parental attention or concern (e.g. lack of interest in child’s education)

Question 4

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Answer 4

A neurodevelopmental disorder defined as a syndrome of persistent, pervasive and distinctive behavioural abnormalities

Question 5

What is the ratio of autism between males and females?

Answer 5

M>F 3;1

Question 6

What are some common clinical problems in ASD?

Answer 6

Learning disability, disturbed sleep and eating habits, hyperactivity, high levels of anxiety and depression, OCD, school avoidance, aggression, temper tantrums, self injury/self harm, suicidal behaviour

Question 7

What are the key features of oppositional defiance disorder?

Answer 7

Refusal to obey adults request, often argues with adults, often loses temper, deliberately annoys people, touchy or easily annoyed by others, spiteful or vindictive

Question 8

What are conduct disorders characterised by ?

Answer 8

Repetitive and persistent patterns of antisocial, aggressive or defiant behaviours which violate age appropriate societal norms

Question 9

What is the management of ADHD?

Answer 9

Psychoeducation, atomoxetine, guanfacine, behavioural interventions, parent training, school interventions

Question 10

What is self harm?

Answer 10

A coping mechanism in which the individual harms themselves to deal with emotional pain or to break feelings of numbness by arousing sensation

Question 11

What factors increase risk of suicide?

Answer 11

Persistent suicidal ideas
Previous suicidal behaviour
High lethality of method used
High suicidal intent and motivation
Ongoing precipitating stress
Mental disorder
Poor Physical health
Impulsivity
Neuroticism
Low self esteem
Hopelessness
Parental psychopathology and suicidal behaviour
Physical and sexual abuse
Disconnection from support system