What is Child Psychology?

Child psychology, sometimes called pediatric psychology, is a subspecialty of psychology that focuses on the behavioral and emotional health of children and adolescents. Child psychologists provide evaluation and treatment to children via therapy. Some of the disorders they commonly treat include:

• ADHD
• Oppositional or defiant behavior
• Depression or Anxiety
• Tics
• Suicidal thoughts
• Compulsive behaviors
• Developmental delays
• Coping with physical illness, including terminal illness and pain

The goal of psychological therapy for children is usually to teach patients skills for coping with stressors and difficult situations in their lives. They may learn or strengthen problem-solving skills. Eventually, with the help of therapy, children's sadness, stress, or anxiety are reduced and their ability to function well is increased.