The Present Status of Child Psychiatry in Pediatrics

Pediatricians and child psychiatrists share a dedication to the well-being of children. For almost 100 years senior members of both fields have advocated collaboration in training and patient care.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 As individuals and members of their respective professional organizations, both acknowledge the impact of psychosocial factors on child development, illness, and family functioning.11 Recent epidemiologic studies have documented that 5 per cent of all pediatric visits are primarily psychiatric,12 and up to 50 per cent are related to behavioral, educational, or social concerns.13 , 14 Although child psychiatry has its own serious shortcomings, not the least of which is its failure to require . . .