[Child behavior disorder : clinical reasoning in general practice]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric behavioral health
• General practice
• Clinical psychology

Context:

• Most children (70%) aged 0-14 see a family doctor annually, but few (6-12%) see specialists for behavioral issues.
• Externalizing behaviors (aggression, anger) and internalizing behaviors (anxiety, depression) in young children often alert families and educators.
• Family doctors are well-positioned to address initial concerns about child behavior.

Purpose:

• To propose a clinical approach for family doctors managing children under 10 with behavioral complaints.
• To equip primary care practitioners with tools to evaluate child behavior effectively.
• To support early identification and management of pediatric behavioral issues.

Summary:

• A literature review identified key factors like child's age and environment guiding family doctors in assessing behavior.
• Family doctors can often reassure families, but specific inquiries are needed for concerning behaviors.
• A preliminary evaluation tool is suggested for primary care physicians to differentiate serious from less serious behavioral troubles.

Impact:

• Empowers family doctors to manage a wider range of pediatric behavioral concerns.
• Facilitates earlier intervention for children with behavioral problems.
• Reduces the need for specialist referrals for less severe cases, optimizing healthcare resources.