A general textbook on the psychiatric disorders of childhood, the book is intended to be an introductory text for students and practitioners working with children (such as psychiatric and pediatric residents and psychologists, teachers, medical students). The genesis of mental illness is discussed in terms of the contributions of heredity and the effects of experience. The process of the child coming to the psychiatrist is outlined (signs of trouble, sources of referral, diagnostic process). The major portion of the text examines specific disorders: schizophrenia, psychoneurosis, brain damage, learning disabilities, personality disorder, psychopathy, mental retardation, juvenile delinquency, physical illness, sleep disorders, and other clinical syndromes. The discussion of treatment modes covers psychotherapy, residential treatment, psychopharmacologic treatment, and other measures. A concluding chapter focuses on child psychiatry - retrospect and prospect. (KW)