Child Disorders Center

The Threat of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) may be relatively common, according to a new study.
Among Teens, Antipsychotics May Be Too Common
Mental illness consists of an array of complex and hard-to-pin-down disorders, but avoiding misdiagnosis can be crucial to treating it properly.
Those Temper Tantrums May Mean More Than You Think
Temper tantrums and telling fibs are often a normal part of being a young kid. Some behaviors, however, could be a tip-off that there’s more going on.
Child Mental Health Disorder Rates May Not Be Rising
Recent claims about children's mental health in the media have had a tendency to be somewhat negative. But a new Canadian study suggests some of those claims may be inaccurate.
Weight May Trigger Asthma in Kids
There’s an established and complex link between asthma and obesity. But which one comes first in children?
ADHD Medicines May Not Stunt Growth
ADHD is often treated with stimulants, which some researchers and parents are concerned could limit children's growth. But new research may relieve those concerns.
Babies Screened Early for SCID Were More Likely to Live
Immunodeficiency in newborns can put them at risk for death or lifelong health problems. New research shows how important early screening may be for newborns' health.
Child Disability Rates Offered Surprises
One of the national surveys that investigates health conditions in children also tracks disability rates. And a recent study found a surprising trend in those rates.
Child Development and Behavior Connected
Young children who have delays in learning and development might face multiple obstacles as they grow, including behavior difficulties.
Light Gaming Linked to Social Adjustment
In the past, video games have been associated with antisocial behavior. But a light amount of gaming may not damage kids' social adjustment.
Family History of Cerebral Palsy May Increase Risk in Children
Cerebral palsy is the most common cause of physical disability among children. Past studies have uncovered various risk factors for the condition, and new research suggests family may play a role in a child's risk for cerebral palsy.
It Might Be More Than Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological condition in which individuals experience seizures. But often children with epilepsy have other health concerns as well.
Substance Abuse at School May Mean Other Problems
Although it's no secret that teens may experiment with alcohol or marijuana, more than 5 percent of them smoke pot or drink alcohol on school campuses.
When Anxiety Complicates ADHD
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may also have other disorders, such as anxiety. It's important to understand how these disorders together affect children.
Autism Increasing and More Likely in White Males
Developmental disorders like autism and Asperger’s syndrome affect families around the world. Tracking cases is part of the clinical effort for better treatment options.
Connecting the Dots with Media and Well-Being
Limiting children's use of television is already one recommendation that pediatricians emphasize to parents. But what might it mean if kids use too much TV, computers or video games?
How Parents Use Cell Phones at Mealtime
Mobile phones have become an increasingly important and often demanding part of life today. But do they get in the way of parent and child interaction?
Acetaminophen During Pregnancy Might Affect Child's Behavior
Acetaminophen is the most common over-the-counter pain reliever in the United States, and is generally considered safe for pregnant women to use. A new study, however, showed that the medication may affect a child's behavioral development.
Predicting Anxiety Later On
Children with anxiety disorders are more likely to be adults with anxiety disorders. But what might stop that trend?
Increased Depression in Common Teen Disorders
Separately, ADHD and asthma each have been associated with mood disorders. Are patients with both ADHD and asthma at an even greater risk?