Special child psychiatric diagnostic outpatient unit for young children

Objective Epidemiological data indicate prevalence rates at about 5 % for behavioural and emotional problems in kindergarten-children in Germany. We present an outpatient diagnostic special service for young children and a preliminary evaluation. Observations in everyday situations support diagnoses and serve as a base for parent counselling. Complementary services such as kindergartens, youth welfare departments or pediatricians may be included for placement decisions. Methods Multiaxial diagnoses of 23 children treated so far as well as parents' ratings on the SDQ (Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire) are reported. Results Our data show a wide spectrum of developmental and behavioural disorders with substantial impact upon children and parents. However, psychosocial risks were rather low so that presumably not all patients needing this service were reached. Conclusions This diagnostic service extends child psychiatric services to an age group which has been undertreated in the local area so far. The need for this service has been established.