Title

Psychosocial Functioning in Children and Adolescents with Gastrointestinal Complaints and Disorders

Authors

Authors

K. A. Hommel; K. L. McGraw; R. T. Ammerman; J. E. Heubi; M. Hansen; E. Dunlap;D. C. Beidel

Comments

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Abbreviated Journal Title

J. Clin. Psychol. Med. Settings

Keywords

Gastroenterology; Pediatrics; Psychosocial; RECURRENT ABDOMINAL-PAIN; PRIMARY-CARE; SOMATIC COMPLAINTS; ANXIETY; DISORDERS; DEPRESSION; IMPACT; RELIABILITY; EMERGENCY; LIFE; Psychology, Clinical

Abstract

The current study examined the prevalence and presentation of psychosocial symptoms in pediatric patients and their parents presenting for first time appointments at a gastroenterology (GI) clinic compared to healthy controls (HC). One hundred GI patients, aged 8-17 years, and their mothers were compared to 100 age- and gender-matched HC on measures of child and parental behavioral/psychosocial functioning, depression, and anxiety. Results revealed significant correlations between mother- and child-reported internalizing behaviors and psychological symptoms. Significant group differences were observed in internalizing problems, adaptive and social skills, and leadership competency, as well as parental interpersonal sensitivity, depression, phobic anxiety, and number of psychological symptoms. GI patients are at increased risk for psychosocial and social dysfunction compared to healthy peers. Psychosocial factors should be considered when assessing patients in GI clinics. Patients might benefit from treatment plans that involve adjunctive behavioral intervention to assist patients in managing their conditions.

Journal Title

Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings

Volume

17

Issue/Number

2

Publication Date

1-1-2010

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

159

Last Page

166

WOS Identifier

WOS:000278180100009

ISSN

1068-9583

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