Overview
Disorders characterised by excessive fear or worry that is developmentally inappropriate, persistent, and impairs functioning.
Diagnostic criteria overview
- Criterion a: excessive fear or anxiety and related behavioural disturbances
- Criterion b: fear/anxiety disproportionate to actual threat
- Criterion c: persistent (usually six months or more)
- Criterion d: causes clinically significant distress or impairment
Symptoms
- Generalised anxiety: persistent worry about multiple domains
- Separation anxiety: distress when separated from attachment figures
- Social anxiety: fear of social evaluation
- Specific phobias: intense fear of specific objects or situations
- Panic symptoms in certain cases
Impact on functioning
- Difficulty separating from caregivers at school or activities
- Avoidance of social or performance situations
- Frequent reassurance-seeking
- Physical complaints interfering with participation
- Reduced independence in age-appropriate activities