Treatment of psychological disorders among urban children

Reports on the prevalence of, treatment for, and factors associated with treatment for serious psychological impairment in urban children aged 6-18. 2 Manhattan samples were studied, the 1st a random cross-section of 1,034 families and the 2nd of 1,000 families receiving welfare (Aid to Dependent Children). A significantly greater number of welfare children were seriously impaired, but the referral rate and long-term treatment rate of children in the 2 samples were similar. Less than 50% of the seriously impaired children were referred, and only 1 in 5 received treatment of 6 mo or longer. Referral rates increased dramatically as mother's education increased, whether she did or did not receive welfare. Families who referred their children were colder, less punitive, and of higher social status. Implications of the findings and possible solutions of the imbalance between treatment and need are discussed.