Psychiatric impairment ratings in children and adolescents

Objectives: It is accepted practice in Australia and New Zealand for psychiatric impairment rating scales to be applied for persons claiming psychiatric injury. These scales were derived for adults, not children. There is less clarity as to whether and how these scales may be applied for children claiming psychiatric injury. Methods: We review Australian and New Zealand guidelines and methods for assessing permanent psychiatric impairment, as they apply to children and adolescents. Results: With significant caution, psychiatric impairment rating scales can be administered for children. Guidance and recommendations in this regard are provided. For some, the effects of psychiatric injury may not be stable, and permanent impairment assessment should be delayed until sufficient maturity occurs. Conclusions: Psychiatric impairment rating scales are widely applied for adults claiming psychiatric injury, however caution must be exercised when these scales are used in children.