Dr. Ralph Ankenman presents new diagnoses and treatment options for children who have severe disruptive meltdowns at home or school. Referred to as Immature Adrenaline Systems Overreactivity (IASO), this approach is based on the relationship between aggression and the body's adrenaline systems. Therefore IASO does not require psychotropic drugs. Instead, IASO reduces or eliminates psychotropic drugs from a child's regimen. IASO stops episodes of violence and aggression in patients with autism, with bipolar disorder, with developmental disabilities and also many with no mental health diagnosis at all. Standard psychotropic drugs often do not fully resolve these behaviors and lead to unnecessary side effects. A companion website of the same name as this book enables caregivers and parents to discuss and share tips about this new approach, called Immature Adrenaline Systems Overreactivity (IASO).

"Illustrations prepared by Malinda Lowder"--Title page verso.

The epidemic overdiagnosis of bipolar disorder in children -- Instincts and violent aggression -- Case studies and clinical experiences -- Talking to clinicians.