The Pediatric Perspective

Pediatricians vary in their perceptions of child psychiatrists and of the value of diagnosis and treatment by child psychiatrists. They also differ as to problems which they will refer for consultations. This chapter discusses the reasons for these differences and presents a brief review of the literature, as well as opinions of the author and a selected group of practitioners and acedemicians as to what problems should have psychiatric consultation. Poor school performance and adjustment is mentioned. The choice of consultation and practice setting, as well as the use of other mental health professionals, is discussed. Lastly, the chapter outlines obligations of both the referring physician and the consultant, regarding use of child psychiatrists, and causes of patients’ failure to get maximum benefit from a consultation.