This book is designed as an introductory text on special education for children and youth with emotional and behavioral disorders. Part 1 addresses the problems in the definition of emotional and behavioral disorders, the prevalence of the disorders, the growth of the field of emotional and behavior disorders, and major current trends. Part 2 examines procedures and problems in assessing emotional and behavioral disorders, and includes information on the difficulties encountered in classifying disorders, and evaluating for eligibility and intervention. Part 3 examines the origins of disordered behavior, including biological, family, school, and cultural factors. Facets of disordered behavior are covered in Part 4, including information on attention and activity disorders; conduct disorders; delinquency, substance abuse, and early sexual activity; anxiety and related disorders; depression and suicidal behavior; and schizophrenia and pervasive developmental disorders. Part 5 contains an interpretation and application of all of the preceding material to teaching practices. A brief case description is included at the end of each chapter, accompanied by several study questions, to help readers apply the chapter content to real-life problems. Personal reflections from educators are also included at the close of each chapter. (Contains over 1,600 references.) (CR)