Emotional Disturbance

Emotional Disturbance 300.8(c)(4), 89.1040(c)(4), 1401(3)(A) means a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a 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 behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.

• A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.

• A tendencyto develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.

Note: The term includes schizophrenia. The term does not apply to children who are socially maladjusted, unless it is determined that they have an emotional disturbance.

Resources

Children's Mental Health & Emotional or Behavioral Disorder Project

Mental Health America

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Beyond Consequences - Trauma Informed Solutions

National Institute on Mental Health

National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)

Center for Parent Information & Resources