Abstract
Objective:
The validity of diagnosis of panic disorder in children and adolescents has been a subject under debate. The aim of the current review is to revisit the discussions surrounding panic disorder in this age group on the basis of information processing approach. Therefore, a brief knowledge regarding the information processing models of panic disorder is presented, information processing biases in panic disorder are mentioned and panic diorder in children and adolescents is discussed within the framework of information processing approach.
Method:
Articles investigating information processing in panic disorder and examining panic disorder in children and adolescents from the information processing point of view have been reviewed.
Results:
There has been an accumulation of data revealing that the processes of perception, attention and memory and the biases taking place during these processes have an important role in the development and maintanence of panic disorder. When the literature on panic disorder in children and adolescents is reviewed, it is seen that, despite the complexity of the picture, a consensus has been emerging recently regarding the existence of panic disorder in this population.
Discussion:
In the light of the literature, it can be suggested that panic disorder is underdiagnosed in children and adolescents or this age group has been misdiagnosed. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria of panic disorder must be modified for children. Otherwise, problems are likely to arise due to the misapplication of the parameters for adults to the children with disregard to the critical developmental characteristics changing by age.
Keywords: Panic disorder, information processing, children, adolescent
