While prescribing medications to children and adolescents is sometimes necessary and beneficial, prescribers often encounter pediatric patients who have been placed on multiple medications, sometimes in excessive doses. The widespread use of medication as the first choice for a variety of concerns has led to overprescribing. Currently, about one in five youths in the US take psychotropic medications. This trend is particularly evident among specific groups, such as children and teens in the foster care system. Reasons for overutilizing medications are complex but include limited access to care, lack of appropriately trained prescribers, and inappropriate expectations from care takers as well as treating professionals.

This presentation will explore the dynamics that underlie psychological symptoms in children and adolescents, and assumptions which may lead to overprescribing. Whereas this problem is not unique to behavioral health, it is in this area of healthcare that the psychologist – especially the medical/prescribing psychologist – can apply knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care for the patient. Comprehensive mental health that addresses the complex needs of this population will be explored and recommendations will be discussed to improve judicious use of medications when warranted.

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