Psychiatric Disorders in Japanese Secondary School Children

Abstract

Approximately 2000 ordinary secondary school children were investigated using screening methods such as the Rutter teacher's and parent's questionnaires and a diagnostic interview. The prevalence estimate was 16% for the 12-13-year-olds and 14% for the 14-15-year-old children. Disorders were identified in boys more often than in girls (boys: girls = 2.4:1, as the ratio of prevalence estimates). Emotional disorders were equally common in boys and girls. However, conduct disorders were found more frequently in boys (boys: girls = 7:1). Out of the children who were judged as having psychiatric disorders only one had received any professional help except from that given by teachers, regardless of severity.