A mother brings her 11-year-old son to the pediatric clinic for investigation of stomach complaints. The mother says that for the last two months, the child has complained of abdominal pain three to four mornings per week. The mother states the child usually complains on school days and always seems to be better by afternoon. The child was able to attend a weekend Boy Scout camp without difficulty but has missed several days of school due to complaints. The nurse would suspect which mental health disorder?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child's symptoms are consistent with school phobia, also known as school refusal. The fact that he only complains on school days suggests that the anxiety is related to attending school. It is important to rule out any medical causes for the abdominal pain, but if nothing is found, the child may benefit from counseling to address the underlying anxiety. Separation anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder may also cause school refusal, but the information provided does not suggest these as likely possibilities.

A Mother Brings Her 11-Year-Old Son to the Pediatric Clinic