Cultural issues in the treatment of young African American children diagnosed with disruptive behavior disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To discuss issues relevant to treating young African American children with disruptive behavior disorders.

METHOD

We treat behavior disorders, correlates of behavior disorders, and special differences between African American and Caucasian children that could lead to or explain behavior problems.

DISCUSSION

The majority of the information on young children diagnosed with disruptive behavior disorders has been obtained primarily from Caucasian children and families. Unfortunately, this reliance on Caucasian data neglects the unique needs of minorities and may lessen the quality of the services that they receive. Omission of ethnic concerns becomes even more salient with the increasing ethnic diversity among children and families in the United States.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest future research and clinical directions that will ultimately assist clinicians to provide high-quality mental health services to African American children.