Abstract
Objective:
The detection, definition and circumvention of the precursors of psychopathology during early childhood years have been assumed to improve mental health outcome in long-term period. Multidimensional processes that lead to the development of psychiatric disorders during infancy, may affect subsequent developmental stages. This paper aimed to describe the first Infant Mental Health Unit of Turkey which had been established in Ankara University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry for assessment and treatment of infants, toddlers and their caregivers.
Method:
The medical history taking, psychiatric examination, developmental assessment and diagnostic methods that had been used in our Infant Mental Health Unit were discussed.
Results:
Clinical and community services are required to promote healthy child development and to aidfamilies with young children in dealing with problems that may hinder development. Infant Mental Health is a relatively newly developing field throughout the world as well as in our country.
Discussion:
Young children should be assessed and treated together with their caregivers by using age-appropriate, structured, multidisciplinary and modern methods.
