Anxiety disorders in children and adolescents.
BACKGROUND
Children and adolescents frequently have symptoms of anxiety. In addition, anxiety disorders are some of the most frequent psychiatric disorders in this age group.


METHODS
We used computerized literature searches (MEDLINE and PSYCHLIT) to identify clinical, research, and review articles on this subject. Various journals and textbooks from the psychiatric, medical, and psychology literature were accessed.


RESULTS
This review includes findings on the epidemiology, developmentally normal anxiety, clinical presentations, course and outcome, and treatment interventions.


CONCLUSIONS
Pediatricians and family practitioners should be familiar with the spectrum of anxiety in children and adolescents. Guidelines for referral to a mental health practitioner are reviewed.
Castellanos
D
D
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami School of Medicine, Fla 33101, USA.
Hunter
T
T
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001007:Anxiety / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D002648:Child; D002652:Child Behavior; D002657:Child Development; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents