Childhood depression. Developmental considerations

Childhood depression is becoming a more commonly recognized diagnosis in the pediatric population. The American Psychiatric Association purposes that the criteria for adult and childhood depression are the same. We question that position and emphasize the developmental aspects of depressive symptoms providing diagnostic guidelines for depression at five different stages from infancy through adolescence. Case examples are included to highlight the distinctive presentation of depression at each developmental stage. Specific treatment recommendations include psychotherapy, mobilization, and pharmacotherapy.