PANS/PANDAS| A Qualitative Study of Parental Perceptions Related to Psychologists' Role in Diagnosis and Treatment

• Main Author: Hardy, Tammy R.
• Language: EN
• Published: Union Institute and University 2018
• Subjects: Counseling Psychology|Clinical psychology
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10935176

<p> <i>Objective:</i> Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) are relatively new diagnoses steeped in interest and debate. While much of the research has been conducted in the medical &ndash; particularly neurological &ndash; field, little has been researched through the psychology field. Despite the fact that symptoms consist of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), tic and movement disorders, Autism Spectrum features, and more, the psychology field appears to be lacking in educating psychologists of PANS/PANDAS. This lack of knowledge puts children at risk as the presentation of symptoms look similar to purely psychiatric disorders. Having this knowledge is important as the treatment for PANS/PANDAS differs significantly from the psychiatric treatments for the symptoms. A wrong diagnosis can lead to delays in treatment, putting children at risk for further possible neurological damage.</p><p>