Improving the services for children with emotional or behavioral problems has been one of the priorities of the Department of Education for the last four decades. Since its implementation, the Office of Special Education Programs has been dedicated to funding and supporting research in the area of emotional disorders. Despite increased attention to students with emotional disorders, their educational, behavioral, and social outcomes continue to be the worst of any disability group. This article provides a national perspective on children with emotional disorders by looking at data provided by three federally funded studies, descriptions of current supported research and development activities, and future directions for investigation. (Contains 2 figures, 7 tables and 8 notes.)