Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a childhood condition of extreme irritability, anger, and frequent, intense temper outbursts. DMDD symptoms go beyond a being a “moody” child—children with DMDD experience severe impairment that requires clinical attention. DMDD is a fairly new diagnosis, appearing for the first time in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published in 2013.
Does your child get much more excited and active than other kids his or her age? Do other people say your child is too excited or too moody? Do you notice he or she has highs and lows much more often than other children? Do these mood changes affect how your child acts at school or at home?
Adolescence is a period characterized by change in nearly every aspect of life. Puberty, hormonal changes, ongoing brain development, transitioning to a different and more challenging school environment, and social changes can all make adolescence a period of growth that is simultaneously thrilling and terrifying.
It is not uncommon for parents, teachers, and medical professionals to describe a child as shy. Shyness is a common trait seen in many young children and is not a cause for concern. Teachers usually refer to shy children as being introverted and cautious. They don’t jump at the chance to speak in front of their class but will do so when necessary. Shy children don’t have a broad group of friends, but they are content in smaller groups of children with similar interests. Parents report that their
