PATIENTS AT A PAEDIATRIC OUT‐PATIENT CLINIC A Study with Particular Reference to Psychological and Social Background Factors II. Earlier Contacts with the Health Service, Social Background, Parents' Morbidity, General Discussion and Recommendations

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Abstract
Psychological factors played an important part in 5.2% of approximately 4000 initial visits to a pediatric clinic; these cases were matched with a control group in which psychological factors were not involved. Patients with psychological factors involved had a more pronounced previous history of psychiatric contacts or attendance at the pediatric clinic for psychological problems than did the controls. Their parents (particularly mothers) had a higher frequency of mental nervous disorders and their families were more frequently the subject of special social inquiries or assistance; the examining pediatrician was unaware of these background conditions. The number of X-ray examinations, consultations and laboratory tests may be reduced with better case histories and proper follow-up. A children''s psychiatric team stationed within the pediatric clinic would facilitate better contacts and training.