Theories on etiopathogenesis of psychoses in childhood and adolescence

Objective: A focused review of a selected part of research on phenomenology of psychoses in children and adolescents is provided. Especially the differences to psychoses in adults are examined. Hallucinations and delusions are illustrated in context to the stage of development. Results: The symptoms of the childhood psychotic disorder differ qualitatively and quantitatively from the adult form. Interpretation of symptoms has always to be set in relationship to developmental age. Delusions and hallucinations are referred to the stages of development according to Piaget. A possible explanation for the fact that symptoms vary strongly according to developmental age is provided. Discussion: The insight for the development of psychotic symptoms from the background of child developmental stages will be increased. But many questions about the specific clinical picture of childhood psychoses still remain to be answered.