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Infantile depression, nonorganic failure to thrive, and DSM-III-R: a different perspective
1Department of Pediatrics, Child Health Center, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
Child Psychiatry and Human Development
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Nonorganic failure to thrive (NOFTT) symptoms align with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) criteria. This suggests NOFTT may be a manifestation of depression in infants, impacting its classification in psychiatric nomenclature.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Pediatrics
Background:
- Nonorganic failure to thrive (NOFTT) lacks a clear classification within psychiatric nomenclature.
- Existing diagnoses like Reactive Attachment Disorder of Infancy (RADI) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) are considered for NOFTT.
- Behaviors in NOFTT infants resemble those seen in anaclitic depression and adult depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the correspondence between NOFTT behaviors and DSM-III-R criteria for Major Depressive Disorder.
- To explore conceptual and therapeutic rationales for classifying NOFTT infants as experiencing depression.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of behavioral symptoms in NOFTT infants.
- Review of diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (DSM-III-R).
- Examination of conceptual frameworks and therapeutic implications.
Main Results:
- NOFTT behaviors exhibit significant overlap with the DSM-III-R criteria for Major Depressive Disorder.
- Conceptual and therapeutic parallels support viewing NOFTT as a depressive condition.
Conclusions:
- NOFTT may be better understood and classified as a form of depression in infants.
- Revisiting NOFTT classification could improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment approaches for affected infants.