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Online Resources Library >> Disabilities >> Emotional Disturbance

Emotional Disturbance

 

Definition

Emotional Disturbance is defined as a condition which exhibits one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects the child's educational performance:

• An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors;
• An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers;
• Inappropriate types of behaviors or feelings under normal circumstances;
• A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression;
• A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.

The term includes schizophrenia.  The term does not apply to students who are "socially maladjusted," unless it is determined that they have an emotional disability. [34 CFR 300.8(c)(4)]

(05-071 Chapter 101, Maine Unified Special Education Regulations)

 

Procedure for Determination.  All steps below are required.

• Data from general education interventions, if appropriate, utilizing research based intervention techniques indicate that the response to general education intervention is not adequate.
• Evaluation will be done by a licensed or certified professional who is qualified to make a diagnostic impression under the DSM codes.

 

Useful Links:

Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) - Emotional Disturbance

National Association of Parents with Children in Special Education(NAPCSE)

NICHCY - Emotional Disturbance