Mental Disorders and Treatment

Limitations of Research on Psychosis in Childhood and Adolescence:Current Controversies and Future Directions

Abstract

James B McCarthy and Victoria G Libby

There is presently insufficient research for the implementation of evidenced based combined treatments of psychosis in children and adolescents. Even though knowledge about the neurobiological underpinnings of psychotic disorders has steadily accumulated, much is still unknown about the progression of psychosis in childhood and adolescence and its most effective treatment. Treatment models for childhood psychosis are largely derived from investigations of psychosis in adulthood. Research is needed that examines both psychotherapeutic and supportive psychosocial interventions as well as their combination with effective medications with minimal risks of negative side effects.Age-specific research and outcome studies are also necessary to illuminate appropriate treatment for psychotic disorders in children and adolescents.