Definition

1. Noun:
   • A psychological condition: "emotional disturbance" refers to any mental disorder where a significant disruption of emotions is the primary feature, and which is not attributed to identifiable physical abnormalities in the brain.

Usage

• The term "emotional disturbance" is used in clinical, educational, and legal contexts to describe a category of conditions affecting emotional regulation and behavior.
• It is often a formal classification, for instance, in special education to determine a student's eligibility for support services.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The child's emotional disturbance made it difficult for him to form stable relationships with his peers.
  • Schools must provide appropriate accommodations for students identified with an emotional disturbance.

Advanced Usage

• "Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED)": A specific legal and clinical term used in the United States, particularly in education (IDEA) and mental health policy, to denote a diagnosable mental health condition that severely impacts a child's educational performance.
  • The program offers specialized services for youth with a Serious Emotional Disturbance.

Variants and Related Words

• Emotional disorder (n): A very similar term, often used interchangeably with "emotional disturbance."
  • Anxiety and depression are common types of emotional disorders.

Synonyms

• Behavioral disorder: A disorder characterized by persistent, maladaptive behaviors.
• Mental health condition: A broader term encompassing various disorders affecting mood, thinking, and behavior.

Related Phrases

• Emotional and behavioral disturbance (EBD): A phrase commonly used in educational settings to describe the combined impact on emotions and conduct.
  • The school has a dedicated unit for pupils with emotional and behavioral disturbances.

Noun

1. any mental disorder not caused by detectable organic abnormalities of the brain and in which a major disturbance of emotions is predominant