A paediatric perspective

Abstract Assessment and continuing care of children with disability comprises a large proportion of outpatient general paediatric practice. Behaviour problems occur commonly in this group of children, a significant source of distress for the child and others, impacting on function and development. Understanding and management of behaviour is an area of practice for which standard medical training often leaves doctors underprepared. This chapter considers behaviour problems in a way that fits within the structures and methodologies of paediatric practice. This work generally takes more time than standard outpatient medical care, however it is an important role for the paediatrician, important for the short- and long-term well-being of the child (and those who care for the child).