The DSM-5 includes three different anxiety disorders, which, in children, typically cluster making it difficult to separate one from another. These three are Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder. The major components of the criteria include:
For Generalized Anxiety Disorder, excessive worrying about events and activities such as school performance, difficulties controlling the worries and the presence of other symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulties with concentration, irritability and sleep problems.
For Separation Anxiety Disorder, a developmentally inappropriate and excessive fear of separation, worries about losing major attachment figures, persistent fear of being alone, and difficulties going to sleep alone without being near an attachment figure.
For Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia), fear or anxiety in social situations such as social interactions and being observed or performing in front of others. The individual fears humiliation, and the social situations provoke anxiety and cause significant distress.
Anxiety disorders medical expert witness specialties include psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, child psychiatry, and pediatrics.