What type of illness does childhood emotional disorder belong to?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Childhood emotional disorders are common mental health conditions during childhood and adolescence, characterized primarily by abnormal emotions such as anxiety, fear, and depression. These disorders are closely related to children's psychological development characteristics and environmental factors. Treatment mainly involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy, with medication added when necessary. With timely intervention, most children have a favorable prognosis.

Childhood emotional disorders are common mental health conditions during childhood and adolescence, characterized primarily by abnormal emotions such as anxiety, fear, and depression. These disorders are closely related to children's psychological development characteristics and environmental factors. A detailed analysis is as follows:

These disorders typically occur in children and adolescents aged 6–18. Symptoms are age-appropriate: younger children may exhibit crying, tantrums, or avoidance of unfamiliar environments; school-aged children often experience learning difficulties and poor concentration; while adolescents may show low mood and social withdrawal. Common types include separation anxiety disorder, specific phobias, and social anxiety disorder. As symptoms tend to persist over time, they can significantly affect children's daily functioning, academic performance, and interpersonal relationships. The causes are complex, involving both genetic factors and psychosocial influences such as family environment, parenting styles, and major life events.

Treatment primarily involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy, with medication added when necessary. With timely intervention, most children have a favorable prognosis. Understanding and support from parents and schools play a crucial role in promoting recovery.